DOTC steps up security measures in Brussels bombing aftermath

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has stepped up its security measures on Wednesday in the light of the bombings in the Belgian capital of Brussels on March 22.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya assured the public that all security measures are in place and that the agencies under DOTC are ready to address any terror threat.

“We assure the public that the government is taking all the necessary measures to secure our airports, other transport facilities, and most especially our people, as they travel during this peak season and beyond. All concerned entities — from government and private sector alike — are ready to address any possible situation,” Abaya said.

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Abaya has directed all transport agencies to be “extra vigilant” in addition to the preparations they set up in observance of the Holy Week.

Some of the actions that the DOTC has set up to beef up its security measures include implementation of checkpoint monitoring outside transport facilities and increasing visibility of uniformed personnel.

The transportation secretary said that these actions are merely precautionary measures.

“For the time being, we have no reason to fear similar events taking place in the country. We are merely taking precautionary steps and activating quick-response protocols in case any emergencies arise,” Abaya said. CDG

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