Sulu assault draws mixed reactions

MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- President Estrada's decision to bomb the Abu Sayyaf's lair has drawn a mixed bag of reactions from different government leaders.

Former President Fidel Ramos is hoping for a quick end to the military assault against the Abu Sayyaf.

"I hope the problem there will be resolved as quickly as possible with the safe recovery of the hostages " says Former President Fidel Ramos.

Minority Leader Senator Teofisto Guingona concedes it is the Presidents prerogative but questions the matter by which the military option was carried out

"I will give him (President Estrada) the benefit of the doubt but the thing is-the method of doing it... I' m surprised why they have to bomb," says Guingona.

Defeated presidential candidate Jose De Venecia Jr. raises concerns over the safety of the 13 Filipinos and 6 foreign hostages, but says he would only pray for the success of the operation.

Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Nur Misuari also expresses deep concern not only for the safety of the hostages but also the civilians caught in the cross fire.

"The problem is there is a lack of medical attention being given to them and some of the civilians were not allowed to enter the hospitals because it is too much already. They could not be accomodated," Misuari added.

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