THE Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is on high alert against terrorist attacks that might be staged following the death of Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, AFP spokesperson Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo said on Monday, October 28.
Arevalo said Baghdadi’s death is a “severe blow” to the terrorist organization and is seen to impact negatively on the leadership of terrorist groups across the world.
“The AFP will continue with our vigorous efforts to prevent or counter terrorist extremists who continue to threaten our country. Our troops in the frontlines remain on high alert to thwart possible attempts to ride on this development,” he said in a statement.
“We will continue to defeat the Daesh-inspired groups from recruiting new members and exploiting the situation in the countryside— all in their futile attempt towards resurgence. We will build from our triumph in Marawi in frustrating ISIS move to establish a caliphate in our country,” he added.
He urged the public to stay alert and be actively involved in reporting to authorities any suspicious persons or activities in their localities.
Philippine National Police (PNP) spokesperson Brigadier General Bernard Banac said they have yet to monitor any threat in relation to Baghdadi’s death.
He assured the conduct of continuous operations to prevent any possible attack.
"Sa ngayon naman ay wala tayong natatanggap na banta sa ating seguridad kaya ang ating mga kababayan ay huwag mangamba at maaaring magpatuloy sila sa kanilang plano na pag-uwi," Banac said.
United States President Donald Trump earlier said Baghdadi killed himself by detonating his “suicide vest” when he was cornered during a raid. (SunStar Philippines)