PNP chief conducts 'showdown inspections'

Following Wednesday’s terrorist attack in Mumbai, India, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Jesus Verzosa started yesterday “showdown inspections” of police readiness in Metro Manila against terrorism.

Verzosa’s inspection started at the mass formation of the Special Weapons and Tactics unit of the National Capital Regional Police Office, the Regional Mobile Group, Special Action Force medical emergency units and Bureau of Fire Protection at the NCRPO headquarters at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City at 2:30 p.m.

“Verzosa will also address the troops and remind them of the PNP’s campaign against terrorism,” said NCRPO chief Director Leopoldo Bataoil.

The inspection was Verzosa’s way of ensuring that all necessary public safety and security measures are in place and that the requirements of the three-tiered defense system are met to deter, counter, and neutralize terrorist acts and to mitigate its effects should it happen.

A terrorist group stormed hotels and several places in Mumbai, India Wednesday night, killing at least 125 people.

Bataoil said there is no direct or specific threat of a terrorist attack in Metro Manila.

“The declaration of full alert status in Metro Manila is a precaution demanded by the situation considering the terrorist attack in Mumbai, India. The said incident shows the ever-present threat of terrorism in our society and that we must always be prepared for it,” Bataoil said.

He also directed his five district and 37 station commanders in Metro Manila to start their respective coordination with local government units, private security agencies and managers of banks and business establishments to complement the implementation of the PNP’s anti-crime drive and related public safety services for the holidays.

He also ordered an intensified intelligence build up against terrorist groups and to initiate “target hardening” of key economic points, critical infrastructure and vital installations such as airports and seaports, and other public places.

The NCRPO chief pointed out that the number of people in malls, bus terminals, rail stations and public markets means more opportunities for criminals. He has ordered the deployment of additional plainclothes police officers in public places and random mobile checkpoints to prevent crime.

“During this season, many companies will withdraw or transport bonus money for employees; that could attract big criminal gangs and thereby increase robbery cases. These gangs would also need transportation, raising the possibility of increased (carjacking and car theft) incidents,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, the PNP’s Aviation Security Group has heightened security measures in the country’s airports to ensure the safety of travelers.

ASG director Chief Superintendent Edwin Corvera reiterated his warning to the public to observe airport rules and regulations. He said dangerous substances such as explosives, gas, fuel, firearms and bullets are still prohibited.

He also advised the public to check the rules of local and international airports. – With Cecille Suerte Felipe