Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte. (PNA file photo)
DAVAO CITY – Mayor Sara Z. Duterte said Tuesday the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 will nurture a "culture of security" in the country.
In a statement, Duterte said Filipinos should be protected from an enemy "that does not have any regard for life, that only has death and destruction on their minds."
“The history of Davao City has been marred by senseless and violent terrorist acts that have cost the lives of Davaoeños. It is a painful reminder as we continue to strive for the peace and security of Davao and the people,” Mayor Sara said.
She also pointed out that even as the country faced a deadly pandemic, the dangers and threats of terrorism remain a reality.
“The presence of domestic and foreign terrorist threats in our country continues to undermine our peace and democracy even as we are in our most vulnerable state,” Duterte pointed out.
She also urged the public to be vigilant and to do its part in establishing and nurturing a "culture of security" in the community.
Davao de Oro Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy echoed Duterte’s view, pointing the need for a stronger law to effectively combat terrorism.
“This law together with our current efforts such as social programs and community dialogues will address terrorism and its causes and triggers. This law will only make our efforts more holistic and comprehensive. This law is long overdue. Let’s get it done,” Uy said.
For Davao Oriental Gov. Nelson Dayanghirang, the bill would ensure the safety and well-being of the Filipino people.
“Only the indifferent and the terrorist-sympathizers will oppose this bill,” Dayanghirang said.
Dayanghirang added the anti-terror bill would enable the government to sustain its gains on its peace and development initiatives.
Meanwhile, Davao Occidental Governor Claude Bautista said the passage of the bill would be beneficial to the Filipinos as it “will suppress terror that killed tens of thousands...and caused the destruction of tens of billions worth of public and private properties and vital installations."
Bautista also added that the bill would complement to the Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) thrust of the government.
“It will likewise put an end to the use of force, violence, and intimidation in furtherance of political and social objectives. If we want to develop a nation, now is the time to take effective measures against criminality, terrorism, drugs, and corruption,” he said. (PNA)
