Vice President Sara Duterte issued a formal appeal to Filipino parents and guardians this Saturday, April 25, emphasizing their indispensable role in shielding the youth from extremist ideologies.
In a statement released by the Office of the Vice President (OVP), Duterte underscored that the foundation of national security and enduring peace begins within the Filipino home.
The Vice President raised alarms over the persistent vulnerability of young people to recruitment by extremist factions, particularly through the rapid spread of radicalization in digital spaces.
To counter this, she urged families to maintain high levels of awareness and active involvement in their children’s lives.
“We also call on parents and guardians to remain vigilant in guiding and monitoring the activities of their children, ensuring they are protected from harmful influences and prevented from being drawn into violent extremist groups,” Duterte said.
According to Duterte, the domestic environment serves as the primary barrier against radicalization. She noted that proactive parental guidance and the cultivation of strong moral values are essential in helping children navigate and reject misinformation or manipulative online content.
By fostering open communication and monitoring a child’s interests, families can effectively disrupt potential recruitment pathways.
The Vice President further tied household vigilance to the broader stability of the Philippines, asserting that the strength of the nation is mirrored in the resilience of its communities.
“Strong families and communities are essential in building a secure and peaceful future for our nation,” she stated.
In addition to her call for civilian participation, Duterte lauded the Philippine Army’s 79th Infantry Battalion for their recent successful operations against extremist elements.
Commending the leadership of Lt. Col. Eric Alfonso, she framed the military’s tactical success as a vital component of the country’s collective peace-building efforts.
“Your courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding our communities are worthy of the highest respect,” Duterte said, addressing the troops. “This achievement reflects not only your operational excellence but also your dedication to upholding peace, security, and the rule of law.”
Closing her statement, the Vice President reaffirmed her support for the armed forces and called for continued unity between the government and the citizenry to achieve lasting development.
“Under my leadership, we recognize the sacrifices you make in service to the nation. May this accomplishment continue to inspire unity and strengthen our collective efforts toward lasting peace and development,” she added.