AFP, PNP ready for terror threat in Davao

MANILA, Philippines – The Armed Forces and the Philippine National Police are ready to fend off any possible terror threat in Davao City and other cities in the Southern Philippines, the head of the Eastern Mindanao Command  (EastMinCom) assured on Saturday, June 28.

EastMinCom Commander Lieutenant General Ricardo Rainier G. Cruz III said he has directed all intelligence units  to verify and validate the reported threat, which was disclosed by Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte on Friday, June 27.

“PNP intel units are also doing the same efforts. We are working jointly with the PNP,” Cruz said.

He said that threats to a thriving city like Davao City are a daily challenge faced by law enforcers and the military, and that both are “always ready” to deter or respond to any threats.

The EastMinCom chief said that AFP and PNP units in Davao have been on alert even before Duterte revealed that President Benigno Aquino III himself had informed him about the possible threat.

Cruz said that they have more than enough forces to secure Davao City and its neighboring towns and communities.

He also said that authorities have the support of the civilian and other stakeholders.

On Friday, Duterte raised the alert level in his city after the President himself told him about the potential terror threat on the cities of Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Koronadal, and Kidapawan. – Rappler.com