Security in terminals tightened

CEBU, Philippines - Authorities are set to fine-tune security in bus terminals in preparation for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Senior Officials' Meeting (SOM) in Cebu next week.

Among the measures agreed on was to put up tarpaulins bearing the hotline numbers of concerned government agencies like the Philippine National Police in different bus terminals.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-7 and the Land Transportation Office-7 officers, public utility vehicles (PUV) operators, and terminal managers, among others convened yesterday discussing the necessary land transport safety and security amid fears of possible spillover of the war in Marawi City.

LTFRB Regional Director Ahmed Cuizon has advised terminal managers to enforce more stringent security measures.

In a letter addressed to all stakeholders, Cuizon directed them to conduct strict inspection of passengers and their belongings.

He said it is important to have K9 dogs and security guards equipped with metal detectors to check each passenger, especially their bags.

Conductors and drivers, on the other hand, are advised to be vigilant and report unusual activities and suspicious-looking people inside their buses to the police.

The public is also reminded to be cautious in dealing with suspicious persons.

Cuizon said a report mechanism has also to be put in place for prompt response.

 "You are also requested to provide support and cooperation to LTFRB inspectors and other peace-keeping elements that will periodically visit and inspect your premises," reads the letter.

The south and north bus terminals are currently enhancing their security measures by beefing up the number of their security personnel.

Police Regional Office-7 Spokesperson Senior Inspector Reslyn Abella earlier said the security measures are in place, assuring that security forces in Cebu are ready for the upcoming ASEAN meeting.

Abella said they are just adopting the preparations from the past hosting of ASEAN meetings.

Abella added that since the last ASEAN meetings in Cebu and Bohol in April they have not downgraded the alert status.

“Updating nalang ni sa deployment and tightening sa security. Ang mga previous nato gihimo ato lang gi-improve. Mas tightened atong security, mas gi-update nato atong capability,” she said.

Cebu City Police Office director Senior Superintendent Joel Doria, for his part, earlier said the city force department has already started the process of strengthening soft spots by conducting inspections to check for outdated equipment and other related supply.

Doria assured the public that spillover of the war in Marawi City is a remote possibility because they are properly coordinating with their counterparts in the area. (FREEMAN)