Security in iloilo ports tripled

THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)-Iloilo said security measures in Iloilo seaports were tripled in response to recent terror attacks.

The PCG activated its heightened alert status following the recent terror attacks in Mindanao.

“Kon sa Dinagyang, naka-heightened alert. Kon double to amon nga ubra, subong gina-triple namon para maiwasan ta nga masudlan kita (sang terror groups) diri sa Iloilo,” said Lt. Commander Rodolfo Dela Peña, PCG-Iloilo commander.

The heightened alert status was based on the national headquarters’ directive, Dela Peña said.

“Upon signal sa headquarters, kon i-download na nila ang heightened alert status, didto kami magsunod,” he said.

The stringent measures are meant to prevent the entry of foreign or local terror groups in Iloilo.

Twenty personnel were deployed to the seaports to augment the security force, especially in inspecting inbound passengers, cargo trucks, and the roll-on-roll-off (RO-RO) vessels. K9 dogs were also deployed to detect explosives and illegal drugs.

PCG substations regularly conduct shore patrol to prevent the entry of terror groups that might penetrate the island through motorized bancas.

“Ang amon substations naga-conduct sang patrol para sa monitoring basi kaisa may gaagi  sa bangka, transportation sa dagat eh,” he said.

He called to the passengers to promptly report to the ship captain any suspicious individuals on board the vessel.

The public can also contact the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the PCG for their security concerns.

“Idirekta nila report aksyonan namon dayun,” he assured.

The PCG closely works with the coastal barangay officials and local government units to ensure the safety and security of the locals.

The Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan, Iloilo also boosted its security measures, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said.

Iloilo Terminal Supervisor Art Parreño said the stringent security measures are also meant to prevent violence perpetuated by terror groups.