The Abu Sayaff, one of the country's armed group, has once again made their presence felt. In a newscast last week, a video footage of a burned Elementary school was aired which according to the military is the result of ASG's recent activity.

   Below is Comm. Taha Basman's commentary to Manila Times regarding the incident:

“As Unesco official and as a Muslim, I strongly condemn the burning of the school which is the citadel of learning where our children can practice the Divine Guidance of “Iqra,” or seeking knowledge and reading,” Basman said.

“Islam is a religion of peace and should not be used as a shield to perpetuate terrorism or to use Islam for one’s self-vested interests,” Basman pointed out