US gives PH $26M to boost counterterrorism efforts
Law enforcement agencies in the Philippines would receive $26.5 million (about P1.39 billion) in aid from the United States (US) to help the country strengthen its counterterrorism operations, according to the US Embassy in Manila.
“The United States will contribute $26.5 million over the next two years to boost counterterrorism support for Philippine law enforcement agencies,” the Public Affairs Section of the US Embassy in Manila said in a statement on Thursday.
The US Embassy said part of the grant will include training, provision of equipment, and other assistance in building a comprehensive law enforcement capacity to deny terrorist operations, funding, and movement.
In addition, the US would also help in investigating and prosecuting terrorists, and in countering radicalization and violent extremism.
“This support for non-military rule-of-law approaches to addressing terrorist threats will complement our sustained commitment to building the counterterrorism capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” the embassy said.
The embassy added that the program attests to the partnership between the two countries.
“The United States is a proud ally of the Philippines and will continue to provide whole-of-government support and assistance to Philippine counterterrorism efforts as we work together to address shared threats to the peace and security of both of our countries,” the embassy added. /muf
