MANILA, Philippines—Senators on Monday asked the authorities to remain vigilant even after the reported death of Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden.
“Even with this news, we should remain vigilant and not keep our guard down because I am almost certain that many “Bin Ladens” will be born and take his place,” Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero said in a statement.
Escudero is chairman of the Senate defense committee.
Senator Gregorio Honasan echoed Escudero’s statement.
“I feel relief with the death of Bin Laden but it doesn’t mean we have to relax, dapat manatiling vigilant ang mga awtoridad [the authorities need to remain vigilant],” Honasan said in a separate statement.
Honasan warned that Bin Laden’s death could provoke his supporters to strengthen their force.
“The root cause of terrorism, which is poverty, and the kind of treatment to our brother Muslims in Mindanao should be addressed,” he said.