Australian Counter-Terrorism Ambassador visits Marawi

Australian Counter-Terrorism Ambassador Paul Foley and six other members of the Australian delegates visited Marawi City on Wednesday, August 7, and pledged continuous support to the government's effort to thwart terrorism.

Foley, who was also accompanied by Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Steven Robinson, had a dialogue with the residents and Australian-funded local partners involved in the recovery of Marawi City.

They toured around the "main affected area" of the Marawi siege and saw the effects of the battle and the ongoing rehabilitation works.

The 103rd Infantry Brigade (Haribon) led by its commander Brigadier General Romeo S. Brawner hosted the visit.

Brawner briefed the envoys on the current security situation in Marawi and its neighboring towns. He discussed the military unit's counter terrorism efforts and the progress of the Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) programs in the area, including a reintegration program for terrorist surrenderees.

Foley said the Australian government is always willing to assist the Philippines in its counter-terrorism efforts.

The Australian armed forces is currently training scores of Philippine Army soldiers in counter urban terrorism at the 1st Infantry (TABAK) Division in Pulacan, Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. —LDF, GMA News