Philippines expects rebels to step up attacks

Manila: Maoist-led guerrillas are expected to intensify attacks on mines, logging areas, plantations and other businesses in the Philippines, the head of the armed forces said on Wednesday.

General Hermogenes Esperon said rebels would step up extortion tactics along with the, in hopes of acquiring more funding.

Armed struggle has been reduced this year due to military pressure, he said, adding: "With these major setbacks, we expect the rebels to step up attacks on government forces and on mines and business establishments so that they could generate funds and stop the haemorrhage on its manpower.''

The military had broken down eight guerrilla bases and reduced rebel numbers by about 300 from January to March, he added.

Since the beginning of the year, communist rebels have attacked at least three mines, two banana plantations and four telecommunications towers.