Terrorism still a big concern for Apec economies

CEBU CITY—Terrorist threats and violent extremism have become more pronounced over the past two years, a development that does not only pose increased danger to life and property, but could also potentially expose businesses in the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) member economies to greater instability, an anti-terrorism expert said.

“Much has happened from the time we first met in Subic and throughout the year. We have seen how the threat of terrorism persists. We have seen how terrorist groups and individuals have conducted their activities—bombings, kidnapping, rape, murders, and so on. We have seen how the Isis [Islamic State of Iraq and Syria] have been doing atrocities. We have seen them destroy precious historical places. We are witnesses to these things on social media and cyberspace,” said Oscar Valuenzuela, senior counter-terrorism director of the Anti-Terrorism Council of the Philippines, during the 6th Counter-Terrorism Working Group (CTWG) meeting last Tuesday.

Valenzuela, who chairs the CTWG, said Apec is now examining a counter-terrorism strategy plan that the group adopted in 2013 in light of recent events involving terrorism threats.

“The foreign terrorist fighters in 2013 were not as pronounced as the situation in 2014 and also this year. The Isis influence is being felt in other areas not only in Syria and Iraq, but also elsewhere in the world and the forecast is not favorable. These things were not included in our strategic plan in 2013, the last time we took it up. But now, we included this matter in our 2015 work plan,” he said.

Valenzuela is seeking recommendations from the group to update the region’s anti-terrorism strategic plan.

During last week’s meetings, Apec members compared notes, shared experiences and assessed efforts on four areas—securing travel, supply chain, finance and infrastructure.

Apec said security and counter-terrorism are crucial in building sustainable and resilient communities. This is why the CTWG supports programs that will strengthen members’ collaboration in countering terrorism and promoting exchange of information regarding movements of terrorist organizations and individuals.

The importance of security of trade, counter-terrorism, and the Apec Counter-Terrorism and Secure Trade Strategy have been recognized by member economies as terrorist attacks can disrupt the peace and even the conduct of business and trade.

A few examples would be possible attacks on the mass transport systems, including airports and airlines, which have happened in the past. The attacks have led to stricter measures in airports around the world, even after the 9/11 incident in the United States.

The security of trade, on the other hand, covers many aspects, including export control measures, border control, and security in the transport of goods and people, Apec said.

If security of trade measures are not taken or given adequate importance, then it will leave Apec members vulnerable to certain elements that may seek to disrupt commerce or take advantage of the system to advance their cause or even for their own personal gains, Apec stressed.

Travel to and from conflict areas has raised issues on the security of travel leading to changes in security measures, especially in airports. This issue has also touched on the area of finance since there are now concerns on how terrorists are able to move and transfer funds.

“We have the knowledge, we have the necessary tools. We must continue to adjust our security procedures, innovate and stay one step ahead. We must learn how to think out of the box against an enemy who is constantly changing the tactics. And most importantly, as one global community and one united Apec region, unite and help each other in this effort against terrorism,” Valenzuela said.