Former DILG Secretary shared the truth about the ISIS Influence in Southeast Asia

Former DILG Secretary Rafael Alunan III shared in his Facebook timeline the truth about the ISIS’ fast growth and emerging influent in the Southeast Asian Region. While some contradicts the idea of terror that this group did in the country, reports from credible journalists and researchers states otherwise.

In the article written by Jun Endo, Nikkei staff writer, the surfacing of the ISIS was specifically stated. Nikkei Asian Review provides stories on politics, economy, business and economic affairs.



In the said article, there will be MAPHILINDO (Malaysia-Philippines-Indonesia) collaboration in the fight the terrorists in the southern Philippines. The three countries will be joining forces on land, air and navy operations to defend the Philippines.

“Many Islamic militant groups in the Southeast Asia are turning increasingly extremist as a result of strengthened ties with the IS. ” The article also stated that Isnilon Hapilon, the leader of the Abu Sayyaf group, was the designated local leader of IS. In addition to this, there were at least 31 Southeast asian terrorist groups link to IS, according to Singapore Defense Minister Ng Eng Hen.



The article also cited the terror attacks in the Southeast asian region. In Indonesia, a suicide bombing happened and was declared as an IS related terrorism. There was also a suicide bombing incident in Malaysia last June 2016 injuring eight persons and it was believed that the incident was arranged by a Malaysian fighter who participated in IS activities in Syria.

The Philippines was also attacked by the extremist groups, where there were 134 Maute group members who fight against the government troops. President Rodrigo R. Duterte declared his intention to eliminate the said ISIS linked group in the Philippines.

“In addition to its heavily Muslim populations, Southeast Asia is subject to the rising influence of IS because the militant group is losing ground in Iraq and Syria to coalition forces.” These security concerns affected the economy and damage future investments from foreign bodies that is why it is highly demanded for the cooperation of the countries and eliminate the extremists, the article pointed out.

Source: Rafael Alunan III