Defense Secretary Lorenzana says there are no more foreign terrorists in the country
MANILA – Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana said while there used to be foreign extremists/terrorists in Mindanao, the military has not detected anybody recently.
Speaking at the virtual press conference for top-ranking government executives in preparation for President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s 5th State of the Nation Address on Monday, July 27, past midday today, Secretary Lorenzana said there used to be foreign extremists in southern Philippines because of our proximity to both Indonesia and Malaysia.
“We no longer see traces of foreign extremists in Mindanao and we have focused our attention on groups like the Abu Sayaff, Bangsamoro Independence Freedom Fighters and the Dawlah Islamiyah,” he said.
About a year ago, AFP Western Mindanano Command chief Lt. General Cirilito A. Sobejana reported at least seven foreign extremists were in Mindanao training with local terror groups.
He added the extremists were seen in several places in Sulu, Basilan and in Maguindanao. (Melo M. Acuña)
Defense Secretary Delfin N. Lorenzana (Screen Grab from PCOO Virtual Presser on Pre-SONA issues)
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