Police assure vigilance against terrorists

CEBU, Philippines - Police assured yesterday that they are on constant alert for the possible entry of alleged terrorists from Mindanao who have fled to Cebu and Manila.

Supt. Romeo Santander, chief of the city police intelligence branch, said yesterday the coast is clear for now.

“Regarding sa giingon lagi nga haven places nila sa mga terrorist sa Manila ug Cebu, sa atong namonitor diri, wala man gyud tay nakita nga kadudahan diri,” Santander said.

He said he learned about this reported movement of the terrorists from the national media but assured the intelligence networks of the local police are strong down to the barangay level.

 “We are always coordinating sa atong counterparts for the safe and security sa community,” Santander said.

He clarified that just because Cebu is mentioned as a “safe haven” does not mean the terrorists are actually here.

“Mohatag mi’g assurance nga wa gyud mi magpabaya when it comes to intelligence gathering gyud,” he added.

Cebu is also considered a place of “rest and recreation” by the New People’s Army (NPA) because it is relatively insurgency-free area.

Peaceful areas like Cebu are identified by the NPA as “white area” where they could move freely for rest and recreation. — (FREEMAN)