A government soldier removes the blindfold of two suspected members of the Muslim extremist group Abu Sayyaf after their capture. Even as the Philippine military continues its full-bore assault on Abu Sayyaf rebels on the southern island of Jolo, the guerrillas continue to issue defiant threats. Government spokesmen keep up a steady stream of upbeat pronouncements. Hostages are freed, dramatically and unexpectedly. Generals call for tough action.
Foreign governments appeal for gentler persuasion.
Voices are raised, wondering why it's all taking so long. The scenario could just as well describe the five months of kidnappings and negotiations that preceded Operation Trident, launched at 0610 hrs on Sept. 16. With reporters barred from Jolo all week, reliable information was even harder to come by than before. Just as murky is who deserves credit for the freedom of the Frenchmen. Obviously, the Philippine army is proud to have recovered us.