DOTr orders transport operators to tighten security after Mindanao blasts
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Tuesday ordered all transport operators to implement security plans following explosions in several parts of Mindanao.
“In view of the recent bombing incident which injured two people, all bus operators, rail system operators, bus terminal operators, and tollway operators are strongly advised to remain vigilant, and ensure the strict implementation of their approved Security Plan, especially those that pertain to Monitoring System and Access Control,” said the DOTr in an advisory.
It then directed operators to do the following to prevent the recurrence of similar incidents:
- Inspection and control of prohibited items that can be brought inside bus units;
- Stringent screening of passengers and baggage before boarding;
- Loading and unloading of passengers only in designated areas with screening;
- Deployment of security personnel, K9 units, and utilization of security equipment;
- Report immediately on suspicious passengers;
- Intelligence/information sharing with local and foreign counterparts;
- Enhance the provisions in the security plan regarding guidelines and procedures to counter bus attacks;
- Conduct drills & exercises as provided in the security plan; and
- Implement appropriate undertakings as provided in the respective security/contingency plans.
In Sultan Kudarat, at least one individual was injured after an improvised bomb exploded behind a bus from Tacurong City en route to Sultan Kudarat.
READ: Blasts rock Mindanao’s Koronadal, Tacurong cities
Two more individuals were also injured in Isabela City, Basilan, after an explosion happened around 800 meters away from a fast food outlet in Valderosa Street, Barangay La Piedad, Isabela City.
Authorities, however, are still investigating the cause of the explosion.
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