PNP Cebu advises US citizens to remain calm amid advisory on kidnapping threat

The Philippine National Police in Cebu on Thursday advised local residents and American citizens to remain calm amid the travel advisory issued by the US Embassy on the alleged presence of terrorist groups in the area.

Chief Insp. Dexter Calacar, Police Regional Office 7 public information officer, said there is no threat monitored in the region.

“At present, there is no direct threat ... sighted or monitored threat groups in the Region,” Calacar said in a text message to reporters.

“The Police Regional Office 7 advised the public especially the foreigners to remain calm despite the statement of the US Embassy alerting their US citizens in the country on the reported presence of terrorist groups in the southern part of Cebu province for the possible plan of kidnapping,” he added.

He said Central Visayas is safe and secured to live, work, and do business and all areas in the region frequented by foreigners are augmented with additional PNP personnel to implement the tightened security coverage.

“Coordination with the other counterparts, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard, was also initiated to further intensify the security measures implemented in every place of convergence such as hotels, resorts, beaches, and tourist destinations,” he said.

He added the intelligence community of PRO7 and Central Command are also constantly monitoring threat groups. 

He said PRO7 also urged the people to be vigilant in their daily undertakings and encouraged them to report to the nearest police station the presence of suspicious persons in their respective locality.

US advisory

In a security message for US citizens dated November 3, 2016, the US Embassy warned against the risk of kidnapping in southern Cebu.

“The US Embassy alerts US citizens that terrorist groups are planning to conduct kidnappings in areas frequented by foreigners on the southern portion of Cebu Island, specifically the areas around Dalaguete and Santander (to include Sumilon Island),” it said.

It added that US citizens should avoid travel to these areas and are reminded to review personal security plans; remain aware of their surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.

“Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security,” it said.

It also reminded all US citizens of the most recent Department of State Worldwide Caution, dated September 13, 2016, which indicates there is an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against United States citizens and interests abroad, including the Philippines.  

“Extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, markets, mass transportation systems – including airlines, and other public venues where large crowds gather.  Crowded nightclubs, shopping malls, buses, and popular restaurants have also been targets,” it said.

“The Embassy reminds US citizens of the importance of taking preventative measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines,” it added. — Amita Legaspi/RSJ, GMA News