Aussie Gunboats to Patrol South Philippines

This is such a needed effort, I'm surprised it wasn't implemented earlier.

From ABC News Online:

Prime Minister John Howard and Philippines President Gloria Arroyo have signed an agreement allowing the two countries to do joint counter-terrorism exercises.

The "status of forces" agreement paves the way for joint military exercises and means Australia will help develop a fleet of high-speed gunboats to combat terrorists in the southern Philippines.

With no less than five distinct terrorist organizations (The Moro National Liberation Front, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, Abu Sayyaf, Jemaah Islamiyah and the New People's Army) operating in the region, coordinated marine patrols will likely impede terrorists' ability to operate freely while gathering intelligence regarding their intentions.

Companion post at The Jawa Report.