Guards tapped to boost Lapu-Lapu's security

CEBU, Philippines - The arrest of an Australian national suspected to be a terrorist in Lapu-Lapu City prompted the police to continue its coordination with hotel and resort security officers to monitor the activities of foreigners in the city.

Acting Police Director Senior Superintendent Armando Radoc said they are now tapping the security officers of different beach resorts and hotels operating in the city, particularly the Lapu-Lapu City Association of Hotels and Resorts Security Officers which was organized by Radoc's predecessor.

According to Radoc, he decided to continue the coordination with the officers and members of the association because they play an important role in monitoring foreigners arriving in Lapu-Lapu City.

During the meeting of the officers of the association, Radoc said security guards assigned at the different resorts and hotels should report to them once they notice suspicious activity by the foreigners.

However, Radoc said guards should be briefed on proper procedure in order not to create a bad image to the city in handling the issues affecting the visitors.

Radoc said they need everybody's cooperation in the fight against foreigners involved in human trafficking and those suspected international terrorists.

Last week, a 29-year-old Australian citizen believed to be a leader of a group of Islamic militants calling for global jihad was arrested and is now under the custody of Philippine immigration authorities.

Police said the alleged terrorist was identified as Robert Edward Cerantonio.

Cerantonio was arrested by joint elements from the Police Regional Office-7, Bureau of Immigration and Lapu-Lapu City Police.

Immigration officials said Cerantonio used the Internet to urge people to undertake extremist activities.

These acts violate anti-terrorism laws, especially those of Australia and the Philippines, police officials said.

Mayor Paz Radaza had also earlier directed Radoc to intensify the campaign against human trafficking following the arrest of another Australian national involved in cyberpornography in Cordova town.  (FREEMAN)