Philippine military sees little threats during Pope visit

The Armed Forces of Philippines ( AFP) saw little threats from terrorists and rebel groups during the upcoming visit of Pope Francis in Philippines.

"So far, we have had no serious threats coming out from our radar screen," AFP spokesman Restituto Padilla in a phone interview on Monday.

Padilla said there is "little" to zero threat from foreign terrorists."There is no need to pay serious attention (to them)," he said.

The military has not monitored any plan by the Abu Sayyaf to disrupt the visit of Pope Francis, according to Padilla. "Right now, they are degraded," he said of the Abu Sayyaf.

Against the New People's Army, Padilla said the leftist rebels are observing a truce from Jan. 15 to 19. "They are declaring a ceasefire so there is no (threat)."

On the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), Padilla said "There is also none. Actually, the BIFF is focused on their stand against the BBL (Bangsamoro Basic Law)."

Congress is deliberating on the BBL which will pave the way for the establishment of a new political entity in the South, as part of the peace pact.

"We are praying that the outcome will be peaceful and successful," said Padilla. The military has declared Red Alert starting last Saturday to ensure readiness for the visit.

Pope Francis is expected to visit Manila and Typhoon Haiyan- ravaged province of Leyte from Jan. 15 to 19.

In 1995, government forces foiled an assassination attempt by members of the Al Qaeda network on Pope John Paul II during a visit in Manila. Endi