On int'l day honoring terrorism victims, VP Duterte says 'true remembrance demands concrete action'

MANILA, Philippines — On the observance of the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, Vice President Sara Duterte called on the nation to go beyond symbolic tributes and enact concrete measures to support communities affected by violent extremism.

In her official address, Vice President Duterte emphasized that honoring victims requires long-term commitment, active policy enforcement, and comprehensive rehabilitation programs rather than relying solely on monuments and moments of silence.

"Hindi lamang pansamantalang pinsala ang dulot ng terorismo. Sinisira nito ang takbo ng buhay ng susunod na henerasyon," Duterte stated, highlighting the lingering generational impact of conflict on Filipino families.

"True remembrance demands concrete action—an active commitment to justice, policy enforcement, and comprehensive rehabilitation."

The Vice President’s message deeply resonated across long-impacted regions in Mindanao, where local communities continue to recover from the lingering damage of local insurgencies, extortion, and armed conflicts.

For survivors and community leaders, the call highlights an urgent necessity: ensuring that displacement and violent extremism no longer disrupt the lives and futures of the youth.

The struggle against terrorism and its lasting human cost remains a global challenge.

Similar observances around the world—such as India’s National Anti-Terrorism Day held every May 21 to mark the 1991 assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi—underscore a shared international push toward non-violence, peace, and structural security.

Concluding her statement, Vice President Duterte urged Filipinos to embrace collective resolve and compassion in rebuilding peace across conflict-affected areas.

"Ibalik natin ang tapang at malasakit," Duterte urged, reaffirming that securing borders, aiding displaced families, and supporting victim recovery remain vital to ensuring a peaceful future for the next generation.

-Paraluman News