• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
After the bombing incident at a state university in Mindanao, all the Philippine Army units in Western and Central Visayas have been ordered to implement proactive security and target hardening measures to prevent occurrence in the 3rd Infantry Division area of responsibility.
In a statement on Monday, Maj. Gen. Marion Sison, 3ID commander, directed the troops to intensify intelligence gathering and monitoring on the existence of extremists and other lawless terrorist groups.
“Closely coordinate with all stakeholders and partner-agencies, including the Philippine National Police (PNP), to strengthen counter-terrorism operations and address potential threats,” he added.
Sison specifically mentioned places of convergence and conveyances such as tourist spots, shopping malls, places of worship, airport and seaports, transport terminals, public markets and school premises, which are likely targets due to heavy foot traffic.
On Sunday morning, the bombing at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur claimed the lives of four persons and injured about 50 others.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said one of two persons of interests is a local terrorist.
Sison also called upon the public to be vigilant and enjoined them to report to authorities suspicious individuals and activities.
“In doing so, we can effectively thwart potential acts of terror and prevail over those who seek to destroy our peace,” the Army official said.
“Amid this tragic incident, let us not allow fear to grip and limit us from doing our daily activities,” Sison added. | GB
