THE Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Southern Visayas has placed its sub-station in the town of Hinoba-an in Negros Occidental on heightened alert status after receiving intelligence reports of a terror threat in the town.

Captain Eduardo De Luna, PCG-Southern Visayas district commander, said he has ordered the sub-station to be on the lookout, especially as the month of December also coincides with the anniversary of the New People's Army (NPA).

De Luna said he has strong belief that the NPA will not carry out an attack against the sub-station as the PCG station in the town is specifically concentrated more on humanitarian efforts.

Aside from the NPA, the recent incidents at sea involving the Abu Sayyaf Group are also being monitored by the PCG sub-station.

Previously, bandits from the Abu Sayyaf have clashed with the Philippine Navy and PCG in two separate encounters at sea in November, which has led to the death of at least 10 bandits.

With the recent reopening of tourist spots in southern Negros such as in the town of Hinoba-an and Sipalay, De Luna said they have further tightened maritime and coastal security to protect tourists from any kidnapping attempts.

They have also strengthened their coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office regarding the intelligence threat.