THE head of the Third Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army, which covers Negros and Panay, ordered brigade and battalion commanders to strengthen their operations amid reports on movements of terrorist groups in the country.
Major General Jon Aying, commander of 3rd ID based in Jamindan, Capiz, said he ordered troops to intensify joint operations with Navy, Coast Guard, Maritime police as well as with local government units to gain strength down to the localities.
On Sunday, April 9, the United States (US) Embassy in Manila issued a travel advisory warning Americans in the country to be careful in traveling to Central Visayas, covering Cebu and Bohol, after receiving “unsubstantial yet credible information” on terrorist groups to kidnap tourists in the area.
US citizens are advised to carefully consider the information in making travel plans, review personal security plans, avoid large crowds and gatherings, and remain vigilant all times, the travel advisory said.
“I already directed our brigade and battalion commanders to immediately trace and check possible new faces to pre-empt whatever atrocities the terrorists might cause,” Aying said.
The army in the region is also doing necessary measures amid intelligence reports on the movement by the Abu Sayyaf terror group in Sulu Sea.
Aying said brigade and battalions are already mobilized to coordinate and collaborate in conducting coastal operations, security operations among resorts, and residences especially those hosting foreign tourists.
These measures are complementing current operations being conducted by the military forces for Holy Week, Aying also said.
“The army maintains its augmentation force with the police during the conduct of checkpoint and other operations so that during untoward incidents we can immediately react,” the commander added.
In a related development, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Ronald dela Rosa confirmed Monday the reports that local terror groups may stage abduction in Central Visayas region.
De la Rosa said he was told by Central Visayas Police Director Noli Taliño that terror groups may attempt to kidnap civilians in the area.
“Suffice it to say that we have monitored and we are ready to face the threat and pinaghandaan natin ‘yan (we are prepared for it). Generic ‘yung sinabi sa akin ng regional director,” he said.
He encouraged vacationers to avoid areas where abductions are "usually happening."
Last weekend, the two suspected members of terrorist group Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) arrested by Philippine authorities last month were placed under the custody of Armed Forces of the Philippines.
According to Justice undersecretary Erickson Balmes, the spouses were transferred for "better security."
Immigration authorities arrested Al-Dhafiri and Zina on March 25 at the Bonifacio Global City in Taguig following reports given by the Kuwaiti government that Al-Dhafiri is a member of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, also known as ISIS.
