In January 2002, the U.S. sent more than 1,200 troops (later raised to 2,000) to assist the Armed Forces of the Philippines in combating terrorist groups linked to al-Qaida, such as Abu Sayyaf, under Operation Enduring Freedom - Philippines. Operations have taken place mostly in the Sulu Archipelago, where terrorists and other groups are active. The majority of troops provide logistics. However, there are special forces troops that are training and assisting in combat operations against the terrorist groups. COUNT 5
QSN1 When did the US send troops to the Philippines to battle terrorists? ANS1 January 2002 QSN2 Terrorists in the Philippines were linked to what larger terrorist organization? ANS2 al-Qaida QSN3 Where did anti-terrorist fighting take place? ANS3 the Sulu Archipelago QSN4 How many troops did the US initially send to the Philippines? ANS4 1,200 QSN5 What was the name of the Philippine terrorist group the US was sent to help combat?  ANS5 Abu Sayyaf