Military calls on people to support fight vs terrorism

August 29, 2020

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay calls for the cooperation of the public to support the government's fight against terrorism.

"Terrorism remains a threat to any democracy. We appeal to all freedom-loving Filipinos to join hands with your Armed Forces of the Philippines as we strengthen our efforts to secure our borders and provide a safe environment for Filipinos," he said Saturday.

"National security is a shared responsibility that requires trust, respect, and cooperation from the citizenry. Everyone should be aware of their surroundings and report all suspicious persons, doubtful activities, and left behind personal belongings while remaining vigilant at all times," he added.

"Together there is much that we can do to ensure the safety of our people and country," said Gapay.

Gapay also expressed sympathy to the families of the victims of the suicide bombings in Jolo.

"On behalf of the Officers, Enlisted Personnel and Civilian Employees of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, I wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the families of the 15 victims who perished as a result of the twin-suicide- bombing attacks on Monday, the 24th of August, 2020 in Jolo, Sulu," he said.

"We offer our prayers for those who have died, and the 74 wounded, all victims of that brazen attack on human lives by the notorious Abu Sayyaf Group, which has been the subject of intense intelligence gathering and monitoring as well as combat operations in Mindanao," he added. Robina Asido/DMS