On the National Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism
“Terrorism has taken root in almost all corners of the world with terrorist organizations thriving (and attacks occurring) in both rich and poor countries. International empirical studies suggest terrorism is associated with complex contextual factors such as: socio-economic inequality, deep historical injustice faced by marginalized groups, lack of judicial impartiality, ethnic fractionalization, and unstable political institutions. All these factors relate critically to governance—both domestic and cross-national—emphasizing how counter-terrorism initiatives cannot simply be addressed as a policing issue.”
The administration of President Rodrigo Duterte fully recognizes and understands the complexity of the problem of terrorism and violent extremism. Hence, the National Action Plan on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (NAP PCVE).
The fundamental purpose of the NAP PCVE is to foster cooperation and coordination amongst government agencies, the private sector and civil society to implement a “whole of nation” approach to solving this complex problem. It particularly aims to provide a coherent framework for policy and programming at the national, regional and local levels.
However, the NAP PCVE has not been made available to the public. So, we do not know the role of Republic Act No. 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 in the NAP PCVE. If indeed it has one.
Obviously, the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 does not address the root causes of terrorism and violent extremism in the country. Interestingly, it is still questionable if it actually enhances the counterterrorism capabilities of law enforcers and national security agents. It gives them more powers for sure, but whether they can now effectively perform their duties and functions in this area remains to be seen.
Filipinos deserve to know the principles and mechanisms in the NAP PCVE. The Duterte administration should immediately provide this. Then they should explain to us how the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 figures in this national action plan.
*Photo credit to the PNP.