‘Terrorists using social media to influence youth’

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Peace advocates are urging Filipinos to unite against alleged attempts by terrorists to influence the youth through social media.

Fr. Angel Calvo, one of the convenors of the Mindanao Peace Weavers, yesterday said they are facing an evolving threat to peace, which specifically targets the youth.

Calvo described the threat as phenomenal, noting the terrorists are using social media to promote extremist violence on their targets.

During a press briefing at the city hall, Calvo said that terrorist indoctrinations and attacks are happening not only in Europe, but also in the Philippines, particularly in Mindanao.

He said before the Marawi conflict erupted, a research on violent extremism and susceptibility of the youth was conducted in the provinces of Sulu, Basilan, Cotabato and Marawi.

Calvo said measures such as creating a culture of peace in schools and the use of social media are being eyed to counter the threat.

“We are still analyzing the threat and looking for ways to counter this with the help of society. All sectors should get involved in countering terrorism,” he said.

Police and the military have been warning about terrorist indoctrination and attacks because of access to social media.