No confirmed report of recruitment by Islamic State of Iraq and Syria in the country

The Palace said Thursday there is no confirmed report that the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) has been recruiting members in the Philippines.

“According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), there is no confirmed report of ISIS recruitment here in the Philippines,” Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said.

"The AFP and other law enforcement authorities are still ascertaining the authenticity of the video," he said. "The AFP said it is coordinating with local leaders to prevent ISIS recruitment efforts and enjoined their support to our counter-radicalization campaign in the communities."

Asked if the country remains safe from ISIS threat, especially in light of Pope Francis’ visit to the Philippines in January, Secretary Coloma said law enforcement agencies are working for the safety of everyone.

"Patuloy na tinitiyak ng ating mga awtoridad at ng ating mga law enforcement authorities ang kaligtasan ng mga mamamayan at ng ating mga komunidad laban sa banta ng terorismo at ng mga pangkat o indibidwal na maaaring magsagawa ng karahasan," he said.

The United States, together with its allies in the Middle East, recently launched air strikes against ISIS strongholds in Syria and Iraq.

Philippine officials have said that the country joins global efforts aimed at getting rid of the ISIS, which has committed unimaginable acts of terror. (PCOO News Release)