Photo courtesy of the AFP

AFP Chief Gapay clarifies remarks on Madaris as breeding ground for terrorism

• Oct 28, 2020
• Gandhi Kinjiyo
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Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief-of-staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay clarified on Friday (Oct 24) that Madaris are not radicalizing the Filipino youth.

In a statement, the military chief said, “What I meant to say was there are unscrupulous individuals wanting to infiltrate schools to do just that — spread hate and plant the seeds of terrorism. And this is what we in the AFP wants to vigorously prevent.”

Gapay was criticized for his earlier remark that the military would be looking into various sectors, including Islamic schools, for being reportedly target of extremists to advocate their anti-government ideology.  

"What I meant to say was there are unscrupulous individuals wanting to infiltrate schools to do just that—spread hate and plant the seeds of terrorism. And this is what we in the AFP wants to vigorously prevent," he said.

The military chief said he is looking into having dialogue with Muslim leaders of the country to demonstrate his sincerity and to further clarify the issue.

Gapay added it was not his intention to hurt the feelings of the Filipino Muslims.

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