President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday declared the safety of Filipinos is the government’s top priority.
The President stressed the message during the 33rd Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) meeting and year end celebration in Malacañang.
“This year, the Anti-Terrorism Council has achieved significant milestones in dismantling threats and fortifying our nation’s security, President Marcos said in his speech during the event.
“By disrupting terrorist organizations and limiting their resources, we have sent an unequivocal message: The safety of our people is our topmost priority,” he added.
He commended the ATC for its feats and rallied the agency to continue pursuing its mission of promoting public welfare.
“Today, we pause to celebrate the achievements and honor the dedication, the resilience, and teamwork of the Anti-Terrorism Council,” he said.
“It’s a time to reflect and to express our gratitude, and renewed commitment to a Bagong Pilipinas where safety and peace are not exceptions but are expectations,” he added.
President Marcos said the administration firmly supports the Council’s mission.
“Together, we will continue investing in initiatives that balance decisive action with inclusive approaches, ensuring a future where peace is not a fleeting ideal but a continued and lasting reality,” he explained.
The mission of the ATC extends beyond neutralizing terrorist threats and prevent them altogether, he said.
“By implementing programs that prevent and counter violent extremism, we address the roots of radicalization and foster trust within our own communities,” he explained.
President Marcos said local leaders should be empowered, engage the youth, and provide avenues for dialogue to build a safer and more united Philippines.
“These efforts plant the seeds of hope and resilience, ensuring that every Filipino can enjoy and benefit from the fruits of peace,” he said.
He said the Philippines is stepping up as a reliable and proactive partner in the fight against the global challenge of terrorism.
By strengthening ties with international allies, the United Nations, and regional organizations, the government has elevated the collective capabilities to address transnational threats.
“These partnerships showcase our nation as both a beneficiary and a contributor to global security, embodying the Filipino values of solidarity, shared responsibility all for peaceful world,” he said.
President Marcos also touted his administration’s accomplishments in its anti-terrorism program.
He said the freezing of assets linked to terrorism, coupled with successful prosecutions, underscores the country’s determination to contain the global threat.
These measures not only safeguard communities but also affirm the commitment to accountability, justice, and peace, the President said.
Another noteworthy achievement is the progress toward exiting the Financial Action Task Force or FATF Grey List, a milestone that benefits millions of Filipinos with smoother remittances for overseas workers and increased investor confidence bolstering the Philippine economy, he said.
“These successes were made possible through the collaboration of various agencies, private sector stakeholders, and tireless public servants. It reminds us that when we move as one, we can achieve goals that resonate across borders, across generations,” he added.
“The work we do requires constant evolution. Terrorism, fueled by advancing technology and shifting tactics, demands a response that blends strength with humanity, vigilance with compassion, and strategy with foresight,” he added. | PND
