US Soldiers Deployed To Philippines
US special forces are preparing to take part in military operations against Muslim guerrillas in the Philippines.
The mission is the first significant expansion outside Afghanistan of President Bush's worldwide war on terror.
Missionary
But officials stressed that, in line with the Philippine constitution, the foreign troops would not go into battle themselves against the rebels.
The US special forces, backed up by marines, will be operating in an advisory role only, although they will be armed for self-protection.
The 500-strong operation will target Abu Sayyaf, a group which has been holding an American missionary couple hostage since May.
Ejecting
Abu Sayyaf has also been linked to September 11 mastermind Osama bin Laden.
The joint operation will centre on the group's two key strongholds in Basilan and Zamboanga.
Further missions could focus on ejecting terrorists from countries like Somalia, Yemen and Indonesia.
Last Updated: 14:13 UK, Monday January 14, 2002
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