‘Bato’ places PNP on full alert nationwide after Davao explosion

Philippine National Police chief Dir. Gen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa has placed all police units nationwide on full alert following the deadly explosion in Davao City that killed 14 and injured at least 60 civilians late Friday.

READ: Death toll in Davao blast rises to 14, 71 others hurt

“In connection to the explosion incident in Davao City last night, full alert is hereby declared nationwide,” read the memorandum issued by Directorate for Operations headed by Chief Supt. Camilo Cascolan to all police offices and stations on Saturday morning.

READ: AFP on high alert after deadly Davao blast

“All regional directors are directed to strengthen and fortify all police stations, detachments and camps to be double alert,” the memorandum said.

“Likewise, coordinate with all intelligence and friendly units in your areas and exercise extreme caution in conducting checkpoints,” it added.

Dela Rosa also directed all police commanders to double the security in all seaports, airports, terminals, malls and other public areas.

He added that police should ensure that all main supply routes in the country will have border control points and police security checkpoints and patrols. IDL