MEMBERS OF local terrorist groups (LTGs) in the country have dropped to just about 50 compared to 1,257 nine years ago, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said Wednesday.
In a press briefing in Camp Aguinaldo, AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla attributed the decline to “sustained security operations, peacebuilding efforts, and strong community engagement.”
The AFP official also said 28 “high value individuals” (HVIs), including 10 “amirs” or LTG group leaders, were neutralized through armed encounters and security operations from 2016 to 2025, resulting in a significant improvement in the country’s domestic security, particularly in Mindanao, where the LTGs are mostly based.
“Focused government operations have resulted in the neutralization, arrest, or surrender of key terrorist leaders, creating a leadership vacuum within the remaining LTGs,” Padilla said.
“The loss of senior figures has weakened command structures and reduced the ability of these groups to plan, direct, and sustain operations.”
LTGs refer to the Abu Sayyaf Group, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, Dawlah Islamiya, and Maute Terrorist Group.
Padilla said available indicators show a steady decline in LTG manpower, firearms, territorial influence, and violent incidents since 2016.
“Remaining groups are fragmented and largely defensive, with diminished operational reach and limited ability to regroup,” she said.
Padilla also said there have been no recorded terrorist training activities, recruitment efforts, or large-scale attacks by domestic LTGs since 2016.
“This underscores the erosion of their operational capacity and the effectiveness of sustained security monitoring,” she said.
Aside from focused government operations, programs for preventing and countering violent extremism continue to encourage peaceful surrender, reintegration, and community participation among LTG members, the AFP spokesperson said. The programs include localized peace initiatives, livelihood support, and cooperation with local leaders.
“Basilan is now free of ASG presence, while Jolo, Sulu, and other areas are experiencing renewed economic activity and tourism, reflecting increased public confidence and normalized daily life,” Padilla said, highlighting the marked improvement in the security situation in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
She also said terrorism threat levels in several areas of Western and Central Mindanao have shifted from high to low.
“While global extremist networks continue to exploit cyberspace, there is no indication of imminent domestic terrorist threats at this time. Government forces remain vigilant and committed to sustaining peace, security, and development nationwide,” Padilla said.
At the global level, Padilla said the AFP remains engaged in information-sharing and regular coordination with government and international partners to support early awareness and timely responses. (PNA)
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