Gordon sought briefing on Mindanao situation

Senator Richard Gordon in a statement on Friday sought a briefing on the situation in Mindanao and of the military.

"While we offer our sympathies to the families of the fallen, we have to look more closely into why our troops are suffering this high level of casualties, I believe Congress and the public deserve to know more about the real situation in the South so that appropriate adjustments - whether in policy or program or material or logistics - can be made, and better support to our troops can be provided," said Gordon.

"It is also fitting to inquire into how military action against the terrorist bands can be matched by socio-economic and civic action to truly alleviate conditions in the South, so that more among our Muslim brothers can be brought within the protection of the State," added the former Olongapo City mayor.

Gordon however quickly pointed out his aim - "This is not a question of assigning blame or pointing fingers. This is just a matter of how we can all put together for the improvement of the situation in the South."