Gov't tightens security in Boracay

BORACAY ISLAND, Philippines (Xinhua) - The government said today that it has implemented strict security measures to ensure the safety of foreign and local tourists visiting the beaches here following the recent bombing incident in the United States.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it will strictly inspect "roll-on, roll-off" (RORO) vessels that ferry passengers to the island.

"Aside from safety concerns, we also received reports that syndicates use RORO vessels for transporting illegal drugs and other illegal items," said PCG assistant senior chief petty officer Ronie Hiponia.

Recently, he noted that the Highway Patrol Group of the Philippine National Police seized three sports utility vehicles which were suspected to have been smuggled into the country.