Manila: The National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) announced its full support for a Senate bill aimed at preventing "terror grooming" and the radicalization and recruitment of students into communist groups.

According to Philippines News Agency, NTF-ELCAC Executive Director Undersecretary Ernesto Torres Jr. emphasized that Senate Bill 1366, known as the proposed Terror Grooming and Radicalization Prevention Act, is designed to protect Filipinos from radicalization, empower communities to resist manipulation, and disrupt terrorist recruitment efforts. Torres stated, "This bill is a critical shield against this injustice."

Torres highlighted that young Filipinos, indigenous peoples, farmers, and marginalized families are frequently targeted by rebels who exploit their poverty and grievances to bolster their ranks. He expressed that the bill, filed by Senator Ronald Dela Rosa, aims to block the efforts of 'terrorist recruiters.'

"Every day, without this law, terrorists prey on our people's hardships to fuel violence," Torres remarked. "This bill defends vulnerable Filipinos without silencing legitimate voices. It safeguards dreams, not destroys them."

He commended Senator Dela Rosa for advocating for the measure and called on lawmakers and the public to support the initiative.