The return of US military advisers to Philippine soil has been met with a mixed response, and President Gloria-Macapagal Arroyo has been criticized for her support of the limited U.S. military presence.

The Philippine government has been unable to control the Abu Sayyaf and various separatist groups operating throughout the country.

U.S. troops in Zamboanga are training elements of the Philippine army to fight an elusive enemy which continues to create instability in the region.

But some Filipinos question the legality of foreign troops in their country.