PNP on alleged threats to Apec summit: Just scare messages

PNP on patrol around Roxas Boulevard . LEO M. SABANGAN II

With a video of alleged terrorists and scare messages spreading online, the Philippine National Police allayed fears that there are threats to public security as top world leaders and foreign delegates gather in the country for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation summit.

Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor, Apec security task force spokesperson and PNP Public Information Office chief, stressed that “no reports of any direct or specific threat” are reaching PNP so far.

“I believe there is a deliberate effort at disinformation. Such messages must be disregarded and reported immediately to authorities,” Mayor said on Monday.

The viral video showed men, who identified themselves as “Abu Anas” and “Abu Jihad,” wearing black veils covering their faces threatening a suicide bombing plot targeting government leaders and their supporters.

It was uploaded on Facebook by a certain Even Demata over the weekend but it wasn’t clear when the video was taken.

Meanwhile, a scare message urging the people to “prepare for the worst” is also spreading on social media. The photo message being shared on Facebook read: “We are in high risk of terrorism during Apec week.”

It also advised the public not to go out of their houses on Apec week.

“If you have to (go out), be with someone. Do not risk your life for a hangout, especially those who live in the main cities: Manila, Makati, and Quezon City,” the message added.

RELATED VIDEOS