CPA buys machine for bomb detection

The Cebu Port Authority has purchased a P6 million worth x-ray machine that is said to be one of the best equipment to detect bombs and explosives amid questions on its incapability to discover liquid bombs and chemical spilling.

CPA deputy general manager Dennis Villamor said the machine is a third generation type of equipment that is even used by some ports in the United States, Malaysia and Indonesia.

Villamor, however, admitted that the machine could not detect chemical spill on sea as well as liquid explosives.

He said the acquisition of the machine was not expensive, as he knew of some agencies that bought a similar machine at a higher price.

The machine can detect passengers carrying bombs from neck to ankle so it would highly be impossible for anybody with explosives to successfully pass through the port, according to Villamor.

Raul Oblenda, manager of the Tagbilaran City port, said there is no equipment that can detect liquid explosives. The best way to ascertain the presence of liquid bombs is only through manual inspection.

On the other hand, Maritime Industry Authority regional director Glenn Cabañes disclosed that the issue on port security is a collective effort.

Shipping companies are duty bound to protect their passengers while onboard, while security within the port premises is the responsibility of the port authorities.

Oblenda stated that every port in the country is required to submit a security plan, under which an ocular inspection is conducted to determine whether the security measures are appropriate. The security plan, however, would depend on the level of risks at every port.

The plan is made after a consultation with the port advisory council which is composed of government agencies and shipping lines.

As the 12th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit draws near, the maritime police and the Philippine Coast Guard are enhancing port security as members of the sub-committee on security.

The country is celebrating the National Maritime Week from September 24 until today. - Gregg M. Rubio/LPM