Less than 2 weeks before Miss U: Lapu cops to verify report on “strangers” in Basak

CEBU, Philippines - Lapu-Lapu City Police Office Operations Chief Junnel Caadlawon yesterday assured that though they have not received reports on threats in the city, they are on "red alert" in preparation for the Miss Universe beauty pageant.

He said this after Basak Barangay Captain Isabelito Darnayla asked the police about the security preparation after getting reports that "strangers " were reportedly coming to their place, especially at night.

Caadlawon said they would verify the information and would improve security in the barangay.

"Ato pa tong ipaagi sa intelligence, ipasubay. Nagpasalamat mi ato kay nihatag sila'g information, which is subject for verification," he said.

Caadlawon said policemen are visible until now in public areas, particularly near the entrance and exits of the Mandaue-Mactan Bridge and the Marcelo Fernan Bridge.

"In fact ang duha ka bridge ato na na gibutangan og personnel so that visible ang atong mga tawo. Ug naay mahitabo, malakat ra sa atong pulis," he said.

The police official also said other mainland barangays are all being watched, considering that Miss Universe candidates will be in the city for the swimsuit presentation at Jpark Island Resort and Waterpark on January 17.

"Whole city ang preparation, di lang Jpark," Caadlawon said.

He said additional policemen will be assigned in Lapu-Lapu to augment the current force, including those who would be assigned to secure the streets going to the resort and back to the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

Meanwhile, in a press conference also yesterday, Mayor Paz Radaza said there will be another business-related activity at Shangri-La's Mactan Resort & Spa, where 48 delegates will convene from January 12 to 16, a day before the Miss Universe event.

Sought for comment, Caadlawon said they would work together with the Philippine Air Force, Philippine Navy and force multipliers like barangay tanods in securing both events. —/RHM (FREEMAN)