Published - Phl security forces ready for retaliatory attacks

By Aurea Calica (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines – President Aquino ordered yesterday the military and police to be on full alert following the killing of top international terrorist leader Osama bin Laden in Pakistan.

“The death of Osama bin Laden marks a signal defeat for the forces of extremism and terrorism,” Aquino said in a statement.

“It represents the death of the efforts of one man to stoke the fires of sectarian hatred and to promote terrorism on a scale unprecedented in the history of mass murder.”

US Special Forces killed the al-Qaeda leader at his safehouse in Abbotabad, Pakistan during a firefight.

“Let us not forget that this is not just an achievement for the United States. It has brought justice to over a dozen Filipinos who lost their lives during the Sept. 11, 2001 attack in the World Trade Center,” Aquino said.

But Aquino said the death of bin Laden “should not lull us into complacency” and called for vigilance.

“The world must continue to consistently and courageously raise its collective voice against religious hatred, political intolerance, and terrorism of all kinds. We must remain vigilant and united in pursuing peace, pluralism, and collective efforts at security. One sword has been beaten down; we must continue to be dedicated to the principle of beating the swords of terrorism into the plowshares of progress and peace,” the President said.