The U.S. Government supports the efforts of the Philippine Government to end these hostage situations. The Philippine authorities are trying to preserve the lives of hostages while also working to ensure that the ASG no longer poses a threat to peace and public safety. We also applaud the active cooperation between the Philippines and Malaysia in dealing with the kidnapping from Sipadan.
International cooperation is essential to defeating terrorism.
The United States does not concede to threats or demands made by terrorists. The U.S. Embassy remains in close touch with Philippine authorities on both these cases. For additional information, please contact the Press Office at 523-1001, ext.