President Pnoy declared "All Out War" against Abu Sayyaf Group(ASG). “We will not stop until the threat they pose to our communities is ended,”. "We have proven before that we will choose all-out justice over all-out-war. We have always believed in the power of dialogue, development, and positive engagement over arms. But we will always act from a position of strength. So, to the ASG , and whoever aid or abet them, you have chosen only the language of force, and we will speak to you only in that language." President Pnoy said in a statement two days after the beheading of the Canadian hostage.
President Pnoy said through a letter, personally extended his condolences to the family of the beheaded canadian Ridsdel who was kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf last September in Samal Island. " They allegedly even hatched plots to kidnap Manny Pacquiao or one of his children, as well as my sister Kris or one of her children, with the plan to use them in bargaining for the release of their cohorts" he added. "Casualties are to be expected. But what has to be of utmost importance is neutralizing the criminal activities of ASG. The men and women in our Armed Forces are well-trained, well-equipped and resourceful. I have full trust and confidence in them." President Pnoy said.