DAVAO CITY, Philippines–The recent travel advisory issued by the United States placed areas under the Eastern Mindanao Command on hight alert level.
The US advised its citizens to avoid visiting Palawan due to possible terror activities in the area.
Army Major Azra L. Balagtey, spokesperson for Eastern Mindanao Command told reporters that the alert status was by the US Thursday is due to possible kidnappings in the area.
“While the travel advisory was specific to Palawan, the Command had to raise the alert level in the area because of the possibility of terrorist groups shifting or diverting operations to Eastern Mindanao,” Balagtey said.
Necessary steps have been taken by the maritime group to secure the coastal and land areas.
The Philippine National Police and the local government units, along with other law enforcement agencies have also been alerted.
The public is enjoined to be vigilant and are advised to immediately report any suspicious activities in their locality.
In the midst of this development, residents are advised to stay calm as law enforcement units are working to protect the residents, Balagtey added.
The Naval Forces of Eastern Mindanao conducted drills and simulation exercises last May 11 to test and evaluate their capability in responding to terrorism.-Armando L. Fenequito Jr./Newsline.ph
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