Philippines calls for international action vs terrorism

MANILA, Philippines - With terror attacks across the world becoming bolder and indiscriminately targeting civilians, there is greater need for nations to close ranks to fight terrorism “in all its forms and wherever they may occur,” a statement from Manila addressed to the international community said.

“The Philippines and the Filipino people stand in solidarity with other peace-loving countries and individuals in expressing deep concern on the continuing terrorist acts happening in many parts of the world, which are indiscriminately targeting innocents and civilians,” the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement.

The DFA issued the statement in the wake of terror attacks across the globe, including in major urban centers like Paris and Istanbul.

A new UN action calls for a comprehensive approach to combating extremism, including taking systematic preventive steps to address the underlying conditions that drive individuals to radicalize and join violent extremist groups.

The UN Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism appeals for concerted action by the international community and cites critical elements for its success including good governance, rule of law, political participation, quality education and decent jobs and full respect for human rights.

The action plan provides more than 70 recommendations to UN member-states to prevent the further spread of violent extremism stemming from “poisonous ideologies.”