US troops prepare to leave Philippines

Soldiers have packed up belongings and helicopters

American forces are preparing to pull out of the southern Philippines after six months providing training and advice to the army in its war against Muslim rebels.

About 1,000 US military advisers and support units have been helping counter guerrillas of the Abu Sayyaf group, which Washington says has links to the al-Qaeda network.

Five people were injured in clashes between pro- and anti-US demonstrators

Despite being welcomed by many Filipinos, the US military presence has angered others in the former American colony.

Campaigners are planning to hold demonstrations at the weekend in protest at an agreement to be signed in Manila by the US Secretary of State, Colin Powell, allowing American military advisers to return to the Philippines permanently.

The opponents of the US action claim it threatens a return to colonialism, but some local people have welcomed the extra protection they believe the troops have brought against the guerrillas.

At least five people were injured early on Tuesday in the southern city of Zamboanga when residents threw rocks at a convoy of anti-US protesters from other provinces.

Sense of security

The US says the Abu Sayyaf has links with Osama Bin Laden's al-Qaeda organisation, though it is better known as a kidnap-for ransom group.

Last year it kidnapped two US missionaries, one of whom was rescued by troops, though her husband died in the operation.

One supporter of the US presence, Hermie Revillas, said she had enjoyed a sense of security she felt would disappear with the Americans.

"It was a very big help to us," she said.

Philippine officials have said there will be a new series of training exercises with the Americans beginning in October for at least eight months.