No threats seen as Noy goes to Davao

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino will attend today’s Mindanao Business Conference in Davao City amid the recent bombings in the south, Malacañang said yesterday.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a press briefing that there was neither threat nor notice received that the event would not push through today.

He also said Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista saw no need to deploy additional troops to Mindanao in the light of the recent bombings in Cagayan de Oro and Cotabato.

He quoted Bautista as saying the military has enough troops in Mindanao to provide security.

Presidential Security Group chief Brig. Gen. Ramon Dizon also said implementing stringent measures in public might only cause panic, but he instructed his commanders to take extra precautions in all presidential engagements.

“We are going to be extra vigilant,” Dizon added.

Lacierda also noted that all incidents are being investigated and the Palace is being updated on developments.

He stressed that authorities have intensified intelligence gathering, but would not disclose what was discussed during the Cabinet security cluster meeting headed by Aquino on Tuesday afternoon because matters concerning national security are confidential.

“The government is well aware of the incident and we would like to assure the public that the government will intensify all its efforts to identify the perpetrators,” he said.

The Senate also launched an investigation led by Sen. Grace Poe and officials are expected to attend to explain some issues.

Asked if the probe was premature since investigation was still ongoing, Lacierda only said executive officials are bound to participate.

“It’s the call of the senator to do that. Senator Grace Poe launched an investigation... We, as part of the executive officials, were invited to attend that investigation, so we really complied and we’ll answer the questions of the senators,” he added.

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, meanwhile, announced yesterday he may consider canceling the annual Kadayawan sa Dabaw festivities next week due to the spate of bombings.

Kadayawan is a local month-long festival held every August as thanksgivingfor a bountiful harvest.

“I will decide by Aug. 13 if I will scrap this year’s Kadayawan celebration. This is not because I am scared but I will not put the lives of the people in peril,” Duterte said in a press briefing. – With Edith Regalado