PNP on high alert for 9/11 anniversary

MANILA, Philippines - Units of the Philippine National Police (PNP) nationwide have been placed on high alert to thwart any possible terror attack to coincide with the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks in the United States by al-Qaeda terrorists.

“The lessons learned from 9/11, and also our own share of experience in some local incidents, have taught us never to lower our guard against terrorism,” PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa said.

Meanwhile, PNP spokesman Senior Superintendent Leonardo Espina said police units have been instructed to heighten vigilance against terrorism in the aftermath of the recent bombing incident in Cotabato City.

“Although there has been no reported terrorist activity or sympathy actions by local terrorist organizations and domestic threat groups, we want to be one step ahead by initiating proactive security measures,” Espina said.

Espina said anti-terrorist and anti-crime measures were put in place with intensified police operations and patrols with the assistance of community volunteers and force multipliers such as barangay peacekeeping teams, civilian volunteer organizations, and local government units.

He said private security guards were also mobilized to assist in the anti-terrorist campaign in shopping malls, commercial centers, hotels, mass transportation facilities, and other places of public convergence.

“Our three-tiered defense system against terrorism is in place with emphasis on intelligence, target-hardening, and incident management,” Espina said.