Sunday, December 21, 2008 Agency urged to focus on fight vs urban terror
PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ordered the defense department to work double time against terrorism, especially in urban areas, following last Thursday's deadly blasts in Iligan City.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said Saturday he has directed the military to coordinate more closely with the police in tightening security, especially during the holidays.
"She ordered us to work double time in fighting terrorism... So now we have to strengthen our coordination with police and other agencies involved in national security," Teodoro said over government run-dzRB radio.
He said they have to remain focused on finding ways to prevent terrorism from affecting the country, adding that terrorism is not just a nationwide but a global threat.
Teodoro said they will aim to get people more involved in the fight against terrorism by boosting their vigilance. "We have to channel people's awareness of terrorist threat towards vigilance and cooperation."
Earlier Saturday, authorities conducted an anti-terrorism drill in the Cubao district in Quezon City to boost public vigilance and cooperation against terrorism. (JMR/Sunnex)
