The problem on terrorism continues to be a clear and present danger to our national security. It sows instability anytime, anywhere.
Such is shown by the bomb explosion in Cotabato City on New Year’s Eve, killing two innocent civilians and wounding over 30 others.
I maintain that the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines have done a good job keeping the terrorists at bay.
Still, we must accept the fact that the PNP and AFP cannot possibly man every nook of the country’s over 7,000 islands, particularly in strife-torn Muslim Mindanao.
Though the PNP task force investigating the Cotabato City tragedy has not identified any suspected group responsible for the attack, its motive clearly constitutes a desperate attempt at destabilization.
If I know, Cotabato City has taken significant strides towards economic progress, as well as peace and order, under the leadership of Mayor Cynthia Guiani-Sayadi.
I strongly believe that the peace-loving people of Cotabato City, Muslims and Christians alike, will prevail and continue progress.
On behalf of the Anti-Crime & Terrorism through Community Involvement and Support, I enjoin the entire nation to unite in the war against terrorism.
Terrorists inspired by the Islamic State movement are desperately trying to sabotage the peace process in Mindanao, where a plebiscite is scheduled to be held this month on the Bangsamoro Organic Law.
It is imperative that we play a more active role against terrorism through community awareness, by supporting the PNP and AFP.
We must stay vigilant, keeping a watchful eye on the activities around us because anti-terrorism is everyone’s business.
We have to live up with the modern-day reality of the global terrorist threat so that we can take active steps to help fight it.
The civilian community must be completely involved and be a committed partner of the authorities in its anti-crime and anti-terrorism task.
