Security alert still up in Davao

DAVAO CITY — The security alert remains high in this city with the military-led Task Force Davao counting on the cooperation of the 1.6 million local residents in thwarting "desperation attacks" by terrorists whose cells across Southeast Asia have been constricted.

"Let us put it this way, the best defense against any terrorist act, including a ‘desperation attack,’ is always the people themselves being vigilant. You just do not rely on the police and the military alone. This is a fight that involves the community, each one of us," said Maj. Orlando Suarez, Task Force Davao executive officer.

Security here has been beefed up following the powerful blasts that ripped through a waiting shed outside the Davao International Airport and a row of food stalls at the entrance of the Sasa wharf’s passenger terminal last March 4 and April 2, respectively, which killed 30 people and wounded over 200 others.

"Even if these terrorists are desperate, they would think twice if their targets are as determined as they are desperate. So vigilance is still the key here," Suarez said. — Edith Regalado