After Davao blast: Cops on high alert, stricter security at Mactan airport

CEBU, Philippines - Police in Region 7 are on high alert following the explosion in Davao City that killed 14 and injured at least 60 late Friday night.  The Mactan Cebu International Airport, too, has also heightened security.

"Conduct of checkpoints and deployment of visibility patrols in areas of convergence and in vital installations are now in place. Security measures in all seaports, airports, bus and public utility vehicle terminals, and malls have been intensified," said Police Regional Office-7 Director Noli Taliño.

Senior Supt. Joel Doria, Director of the Cebu City Police Office, also said the city police are on full alert.

"Full alert status po tayo at pina-secure natin all vital installation… every police station may random checkpoint po at intensified ang police visibility natin sa Cebu City," he said.

Aside from the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of Philippines is also on full alert status.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued yesterday, MCIAA and GMCAC said the heightened security at the airport is in response to "current assessed threat level at essential public utilities such as airports."

"While there is no specific threat to MCIA at the moment, the measures are precautionary in nature and are designed to ensure the best possible level of protection is afforded to passengers and staff at the Airport," the statement reads.

The measures introduced include:

• PNP-AVSEU-7 is on Full Alert in consonance with the PNP national directive;

• Increased police visibility in the Terminal and outside the Terminal. An MCIAA SWAT Team maintains regular patrols around the area.

• Vehicles entering MCIA complex are stopped and checked at PAGASA Checkpoint, backed up by a Lapu-Lapu City PNP SWAT Team;

• Office of Transportation Security (OTS) is on Heightened Alert levels - there shall be increased frequency of random frisking at the Security Screening (X-ray) Areas;

• Airport and Customer Services staff are directed to remain vigilant and always on the look-out for unusual or suspicious activities with particular focus on unattended bags.

• Social Media messages advising passengers to allow more time for airport processes due to heightened security measures.

The airport management is asking for cooperation from passengers.

"MCIAA, GMCAC, PNP-AVSEU, and OTS are asking for the public's understanding on the added inconvenience passengers and other airport users will be exposed to. These security measures are imposed due to the recent events in southern Philippines and are intended to ensure the best possible protection of our citizens and stakeholders," the statement reads.

LGU responses

Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña said yesterday he has alerted parishes to revive security groups. Mandaue City is implementing its curfew ordinance strictly from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. while Lapu-Lapu City has heightened its own police force. (FREEMAN)