PNP chief inspects security measures at churches, malls

Authorities assured the public yesterday that all security measures are being implemented against possible terror attacks during Holy Week.

"The public should not be scared once they see soldiers and policemen. The AFP and the PNP (Philippine National Police) have a concerted effort to assure their safety," said Lt. Gen. Alan Cabalquinto, chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ National Capital Regional Command (NCRCOM).

PNP chief Director General Arturo Lomibao, for his part, led the police in an inspection tour of Metro Manila visiting bus terminals, churches and shopping malls to oversee that security measures were in place.

Lomibao said the police are still on high alert, ready to pounce on anyone suspected of engaging in terrorist activity.

"You (terrorists) have to think twice or abandon plans as the government will surely catch you," he said.

Security forces have been placed on high alert on reports that seven men have been deployed for bombing attacks in key cities across the country on Holy Week in retaliation for the deaths of Abu Sayyaf detainees in a jail revolt last week.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has identified four key areas in Metro Manila as likely targets of terror attacks.

NCRPO chief Deputy Director General Avelino Razon said intelligence estimates that the terrorist would likely try to strike in the areas of Baclaran in Parañaque City, Quiapo in Manila, Monumento Circle in Caloocan City and Cubao, Quezon City.

Lomibao and Razon led police officials in visiting the so-called target sites yesterday as they assured the public that the government is in control of the situation.

A contingent of bomb experts and K-9 units accompanied the two senior police officials during the inspection tour.

Policemen distributed copies of the sketches of the seven terrorists to help stir public awareness and vigilance.

Cabalquinto, for his part, said the NCRCOM is coordinating their efforts with the NCRPO in the deployment of servicemen along with policemen.

"Before, we’re joining them in patrolling selected malls, now we’re shifting joint patrols in religious sites where people would normally congregate during the Holy Week," he said.

Authorities have also imposed stricter security measures in several of the country’s seaports and shorelines.

"We’ll take care of various seaports while the PNP would check all the bus terminals," Cabalquinto added.