Zamboanga gov't calls on youth to combat radicalism, extremism

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - The local government here tapped various youth organizations to help combat radicalism and extremism among youngsters following the unthinkable violence that hit Paris, France.

Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar also called for a continuous pre-emptive target hardening measures since the city is located south near Sulu, where government forces were running after the Abu Sayyaf members.

The Abu Sayyaf group, a local militant faction recently pledged allegiance with the Islamic State militants, who were reportedly behind the attacks and shootings in Paris. 

“Zamboanga City should maintain high level of alert and the civilian population is called upon to contribute as force multipliers by cooperating with the barangay officials, the police and military,” Salazar said.

Salazar was one of the local politicians who symphatized with the victims of Paris terror attacks.

She said she was also concerned with the youths, who are targets of radicalism and extremism.

Salazar said education and job opportunities for the youth must be enhanced to prevent them from becoming victims of radicalism.