No credible threat regarding terror groups, says AFP
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Monday that there is no credible terror threat in the country and that the public may continue with their normal lives.
“The AFP have not received any credible threat regarding terror groups who are planning to launch terror attacks in the country,” military spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla told reporters at Camp Aguinaldo.
This comes after Malacañang urged the public to be vigilant.
READ: Avoid crowded places, public urged, as military hunts terrorists
“We have warnings about places, especially in areas where the public mill about, like malls. If you see suspicious items, report them to the proper authorities,” said presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda on radio on Sunday.
However, the AFP still called on citizens to be vigilant and watchful against terror attacks despite the lack of threat.
“Please continue with your normal schedule, your normal lives and what we are pushing here is more of a collective, cooperative and participative kind of security,” Padilla said.
The spokesperson also said that they have not received any reports pertaining to the presence of ISIS or their legitimate sympathizers in the Philippines, saying there is no “authentic link” between the ISIS and the Abu Sayyaf.
The military has intensified its operations against the Abu Sayyaf, known for terrorist attacks and kidnapping for ransom, and other terror groups in Mindanao after the beheading of a Malaysian national last week.
READ: Malaysian hostage beheaded by Abu Sayyaf – report | Breakdown in talks led to killing of Malaysian hostage | Family of Malaysian hostage prays for return of Then’s remains
Although the killing was already condemned by Malaysian Prime Minister Rajib Razak and confirmed by President Benigno Aquino III, Padilla said it is still under investigation “to confirm the victim’s identity with finality.”
