An interagency task force was set up to monitor and secure the waters of the Visayas and Negros island regions from terror threats yesterday.
About 12 government agencies joined the military and the Coast Guard in the Visayas Sea Safety and Security Inter-Agency Task Force.
“The terrorists will try to expand for sure. But we are geared to create one Visayas when it comes to the fight against terrorism,” said Presidential Assistant for the Visayas Michael Dino after yesterday’s signing of an agreement creating the task force.
Lt. Gen. Oscar Lactao, Armed Forces of the Philippines Central Command chief, said while there are no verified reports of terrorist groups entering the waters of Visayas, they are ready to deal with these threats should they come.
“We are prepared for possible threats against our security. However, we need to continuously improve our manpower and our equipment so we can fight with the lawless elements,” Lactao said.
Lactao, who will serve as chairman of the task force, said they are planning to purchase new fighting equipment and radars.
Commodore Pablo Gonzales Jr., Philippine Coast Guard Central Visayas chief, said their office started installing equipment to monitor sea vessels, including small fishing bancas.
A National Coast Watch Station was built in Cebu City, and it will house real-time monitoring equipment. It will be operational in October this year, Gonzales said.
Lactao said terror groups like the Abu Sayyaf and the Maute extremists should be dealt with immediately and must not be underestimated.
“Our biggest mistake would be to think that lawless elements can be easily defeated. These groups always find ways to step up their strategies. We are going to do the same,” Lactao said.