Lanao Del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr. looks on as law enforcement officers investigate the scene of an explosion that occurred during a Catholic Mass in a gymnasium at Mindanao State University in Marawi, Philippines, December 3, 2023. Lanao Del Sur Provincial Government/Handout via REUTERS
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday put Mindanao on “full alert status” following a bombing incident that killed four and injured several at Mindanao State University in Marawi City.
PNP Public Information Officer (PIO) PCol Jean Fajardo said that this is part of the national police’s strategy to ensure a swift response in case further threats emerge following the bombing.
“This decision is part of our strategy to enhance readiness and response capabilities in order to address any potential threats or untoward incidents,” she said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) is on heightened alert to reinforce vigilance and immediate response capabilities in the region.
“To reassure the public and deter criminal elements, the NCRPO is on heightened alert with increased police visibility across the region,” Fajardo said.
“We are intensifying efforts through the deployment of patrols and checkpoints in strategic locations,” she added.
Further, Fajardo said that the PNP has deployed augmentation teams consisting of Special Action Force units, Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams, and K9 units in Marawi City.
“These teams are actively conducting paneling activities in areas of convergence to strengthen security measures and detect potential threats,” she said.
“The Health Service (HS) has been directed to provide immediate assistance to the wounded victims, ensuring they receive prompt and efficient medical attention,” the PNP PIO added.
The PNP is also intensifying its efforts to monitor and gather crucial information that will aid in the prevention and investigation of incidents, as well as the identification of potential threats, Fajardo continued.