00:00 Today, the Anti-Terrorism Council, or the APC, has taken a decisive step in the fight against terrorism.
00:08 Based on probable cause and on labor commitment, the APC has officially designated individuals and groups that pose a grave threat to our nation's well-being.
00:20 First, the Malti Group has long been identified as a terrorist organization.
00:27 With ties to the ISIL and a history of violence culminating in the devastating Marawi siege in 2017,
00:35 the designation of Hafida Romato Maute and Nahara Kahiriya Siti Hamim as terrorists further solidified our resolve to combat terrorism at its roots.
00:50 Additionally, we have designated Congressman Arnulfo A. Tevez and his armed group, the Tevez Terrorist Group, as terrorists.
00:59 The decision comes after meticulous investigation into their violent activities that have caused harm to innocent lives in Negros Oriental, including that of Governor Roel Digamo.
01:14 The Tevez Terrorist Group's actions have sowed fear and intimidation among the residents of the province.
01:21 The tragic incident on March 4, 2023, which claimed several lives and left many others injured, is a stark reminder of the threat posed by private armed groups within our country.
01:36 The ATC's designation is not arbitrary, but based on compelling evidence and factual incidents in accordance with the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
01:46 We, the ATC, have found probable cause to warrant these designations, covering offenses related to committing terrorism,
01:55 planning, training, preparing, and facilitating terrorist acts, recruitment and membership in a terrorist organization,
02:04 as well as providing material support to terrorists.
02:07 The designation of the Malte Group and the Tevez Terrorist Group as terrorists is a significant stride towards addressing the proliferation and emergence of private armed groups within our nation.
02:21 By identifying and confronting these threats head-on, we reinforce our commitment to holding law and order,
02:29 safeguarding our citizens, and ensuring the prevalence of peace and security in every corner of our beloved country.
02:36 The ATC's main objective is to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of our citizens.
02:44 The Anti-Terrorism Act was enacted to empower the government in its efforts to prevent and respond to acts of terrorism effectively.
02:54 It is essential to note that for as long as violent acts fall within the definition of terrorism,
03:00 the government will not hesitate to designate individuals or groups as such, as mandated by law to protect the greater welfare of our nation.
03:10 For more information, visit www.fema.gov
03:19 (bell dings)
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