ISABELA CITY, Basilan — Gov. Hadjiman S. Hataman-Salliman says he is being extra careful as he continues to receive death threats from armed groups like the Abu Sayyaf.

“Ever since I declared an all-out war against the ASG, I am already extra careful in all my movement because the threat to my life is great,” Salliman says.

The governor says he has to continue serving his constituents despite the death threats, so he should “never give them a chance to hit you.”

He recalls a failed attempt on his life. A roadside bomb exploded but failed to kill him because of his vigilance, he says.

The police are also helping to protect him. He cites an instance when he was offered a ride on a government helicopter to take him to Zamboanga City or Manila for a conference or disaster relief activity.

Salliman says being extra careful is also necessary with the spate of killings and ambush on public officials.

The governor was referring to the recent killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and attack on the convoy of Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Alonto Adiong.

Meanwhile, Salliman says the peace and order situation in his province has tremendously improved with the continuous surrender of members of the Abu Sayyaf Group fighters in Basilan.