THE PNP has instructed private security service providers and personnel to intensify efforts to preempt supposed plans by local terrorist groups to sow terror.
The instruction was contained in a memorandum dated June 14 issued by the Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies (SOSIA) of the PNP’s Civil Security Group.
Signed by SOCIA acting chief Col. Marlou Roy Alzate, the two-page memorandum was titled “Reminder on intensification of security measures re planned atrocities of local terrorist groups.”
It called for the strengthening of “information gathering on various threat groups and closely monitor developments on their terrorist plans and activities.
“Likewise, you are also advised to conduct appropriate security measures to preempt any untoward incident/s that may occur within our areas of responsibility (AOR),” it added.
Specifically, SOSIA said private security personnel should continue monitoring potential targets, including places of convergencies, and vital installations, like churches, malls and power lines.
It said these areas should be manned by “well-trained and vigilant private security personnel.”
“Continue to conduct target hardening measures and be always vigilant in our respective posts,” the memorandum said.
Private security personnel were also told to be strict in the conduct of inspection and checking of bags and belongings of persons entering establishments.
“Those who notice anything that is suspected to be bomb or IED (improvised explosive device) shall immediately report the same to their security officers/supervisors and notify the nearest police stations/police community patrol bases as necessary,” it added.
SOSIA urged the private security personnel to maintain “efficient communication linkages” with the PNP and other law enforcement agencies and be aware of their locations and contact numbers.
SOSIA is the regulatory office dealing with private security professionals and private security agencies and ensures their compliance with the Private Security Services Industry Act.
It conducts inspections of private security agencies and personnel to ensure security measures are followed.
PNP Civil Security Group spokeswoman Lt. Col. Eudisan Gultiano confirmed the existence of the memorandum.
Gultiano said it was merely a “regular reminder” to private security agencies and personnel of such possible atrocities. “This is part of the function of SOSIA: to remind our security professionals,” he said.
Asked if there is a specific threat of atrocities, Gultiano said: “I cannot answer that matter because we are not a competent office (to disclose that information).”
