NCRPO: No terror threat in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines — The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) yesterday appealed to the public not to spread false information about a terror threat in Metro Manila amid the decision of Malacañang to suspend classes despite the absence of a transport strike on Tuesday.

In a radio interview, NCRPO chief Director Oscar Albayalde said Metro Manila remains safe from terrorists.

Albayalde said President Duterte’s decision to suspend classes was “just a precautionary measure and had nothing to do with any supposed terror threat.”

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) was placed on heightened alert amid reports that foreign terrorists had sneaked into the country through the southern backdoor.

Ed Monreal, general manager of the Manila International Airport Authority, urged the public not to panic.

“This is part of our security measures to protect the passengers and airport employees,” Monreal said.

He said they have coordinated with the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group.

Monreal also ordered the Office of Transport Security to conduct thorough inspection of passengers’ baggage for bombs and other contraband.

He urged the public to cooperate with airport security personnel.

“We do not want to inconvenience travelers by creating long lines at the screening counters,” Monreal said.

He asked the public to report to authorities any unusual activity and suspicious individuals roaming the airport.

The NAIA was placed on alert after the Western Mindanao Command allegedly received reports that terrorists were able to enter the country.