Taguig mobilizes barangay network vs terror threats

Taguig Mayor Freddie Tinga mobilized all officials of the city’s 18 barangays to check on new faces in their communities and to advise Taguig residents to be cautious and alert when riding public utility vehicles or going to public places.

Last Friday, Tiñga called barangay officials to an emergency meeting for the implementation of security measures against other possible acts of terrorism following the spate of bombings that occurred in the cities of General Santos, Davao and Makati on Valentine’s Day.

The mayor tasked each barangay to submit a weekly report on new migrants in their areas of jurisdiction for close monitoring.

Taguig police chief Superintendent Ramon Reyes told officials to advise their constituents to be watchful when riding public transport or when going to public places like malls or schools.

"Immediately call the attention of persons leaving packages or bags in the area, especially if they are acting suspiciously," Reyes said.

In the Makati bombing, 27 of the victims were identified as Taguig residents.

Office of Social Welfare and Development head Ramonito Jordan and local health officer Dr. Rolando Paac led the monitoring of the victims’ conditions for the city government’s extension of proper medical and financial assistance.

Tiñga expressed sadness over the passing away the other day of Ronnie Soriano, 27, a resident of Cabasan street, Zone 3, Barangay Signal Village, Taguig City, the fourth fatality in the Makati bombing.

The mayor assured Soriano’s family of assistance from the city government.

He called on the public to be vigilant. Taguig’s constituents are advised to immediately report any suspicious activities or whereabouts of possible terrorists to the Special Response Team at telephone number 542-4009 or the text center at 09202093413.

Tiñga stressed that Taguig will continue with the ID system which has been successfully implemented in the city since 2003, but said it will have to be modified into a metrowide type of identification system.