Military tightens security in public places, facilities

THE military has tightened security measures in public places and vital facilities following the death of international terrorist leader Osama bin Laden.

Major Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, spokesperson of the Army's 4th Infantry Division based at Camp Edilberto Evangelista, Patag, Cagayan de Oro City, said the division's forces have already been alerted to secure the ground from possible bombing attacks from supporters and sympathizers of bin Laden.

"Our AOD (areas of deployment) personnel were already alerted. The K9 units and the platoons are always ready to secure the people from possible retaliation by bin Laden's al-Qaeda local network," Osias said Tuesday.

He, however, said that the possibility of retaliation "is not that much."

He said the military intended to beef-up Philippine National Police personnel in providing security to the general public, particularly those in the malls, public markets, airports and seaports.

"We are on our toes right now. They (public) don't have to worry," Osias said.

He said they would welcome reports from concerned and vigilant individuals if they notice suspicious-looking armed men.

Osias, quoting 4th ID commanding Major General Victor Felix, said they expect the international network of terrorists to have drastically weakened after bin Laden's death.

However, he pointed out that bin Laden's death does not mean an end to terrorism since the possibility for his lieutenants to assume leadership is there.