NATIONAL Security Adviser Eduardo Año calls for a united, whole-of-nation approach to combat the rising threat of terrorism and violent extremism, particularly those targeting the youth and vulnerable sectors.
Speaking at a strategic workshop in Manila, Año emphasized the need for collaboration among government agencies, private sectors, academe, and civil society to prevent these ideologies from taking roots.
“No single agency, sector, or leader can solve this problem alone,” Año said. “This workshop is a prime example of the collaborative approach crucial to success.”
Año highlighted the importance of international cooperation and learning from global models while tailoring solutions to the Philippines’ unique context. He stressed that the ultimate goal is “to ensure a safe, fear-free environment for all Filipinos, with a focus on inclusivity and community empowerment.”
The “Top Management Strategic Communications Workshop” featured expert-led discussions on topics such as public awareness strategies, family and societal roles, and the influence of digital spaces on youth recruitment.
Recommendations from the workshop include bolstering community education, creating strong support systems, and enhancing international collaboration to dismantle the foundations of extremist resilience.
Officials of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflicts officials reaffirmed their commitment to recalibrating counter-terrorism strategies, moving from armed conflict to addressing root causes, with the aim of fostering a peaceful and inclusive society.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Año calls for united approach versus terrorists grooming, extremism.”
