PCG still on alert after MSU bombing

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) remains on heightened alert even as no terror threats have been monitored at ports following the explosion at the Mindanao State University in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur that left four people dead and scores injured on Sunday.

“While we have not monitored any threat, we would not be lax in implementing increased security measures to prevent terrorist groups from infiltrating the ports and our ranks,” PCG spokesman Rear Admiral Armand Balilo said yesterday.

Authorities believed that the bombing was the handiwork of the Dawlah Islamiyah-Maute terror group.

“The PCG is on heightened alert, including our floating assets patrolling the coastline and vital installations that are connected with sea travel,” Balilo said.

The PCG is also coordinating with the Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine National Police and Armed Forces to make sure there would be zero maritime crimes during the holiday season, Balilo noted.

PCG commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan earlier ordered all 15 Coast Guard districts to implement strict security protocols at ports.