The Philippine government Monday rejected a warning made by the number two official of the US embassy in Manila that Mindanao has become "the new Mecca of terrorism."

"Such negative hyperbole to describe the Mindanao situation is out of tune with what is happening on the ground," Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said.

In a recent interview with Australian media, Joseph Mussomeli, charge d'affaires of the US embassy in Manila, described Mindanao as a playground of Southeast Asia-based Jemaah Islamiyah terror group.

He also said the Philippine government is not doing enough in fighting terrorism.

Bunye said the Philippine government is making gains against terrorism.

"With the United States as an ally, we are elevating hopes for a region that is being transformed from an area of conflict into an area of peace, development and harmony for Christians, Muslims and Lumads," he said.

Source: Xinhua