Gov’t to go all out against foreign terrorists, coddlers

In the wake of reported presence of Turkish militants in the country, the Philippine government has vowed to run after groups abetting terrorists and work with other nations in fighting the global threat.

Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella said authorities have yet to confirm the suspected presence of the Fethullah Gulen Movement in the country, but will hold accountable groups in collusion with the terror suspects.

“The military is verifying the statement of Turkish Ambassador Esra Cankorur regarding the presence of Turkish terrorists, particularly the Fetullah Gulen Movement, in the Philippines,” Abella said.

“We will investigate organizations abetting or aiding terrorism and will hold them accountable, especially those who may be working as fronts for terrorist and criminal activities, as alleged by the Ambassador,” he added.

The government has also recognized the significance of international cooperation in eliminating the threat of terrorism.

“We are also working closely with all other nations to combat terrorism. This is now a global threat that can be better addressed through a unified effort,” Abella said.
Ambassador Cankorur recently warned that the Gulen terror movement has reached the local shores.

She said the group has been using schools and other charity groups as front organizations.

The movement, named after U.S.-based cleric Fethullah Gulen, has been blamed for the deadly coup attempt against the alleged authoritarian government of Turkey last year.

By Genalyn Kabiling