The United States has warned its citizens currently in the Philippines about the increased security measures being carried out in Metro Manila in light of the declaration of Martial Law in Mindanao and not related to any specified terror threat information directed towards the country’s capital.
In a security message, the US Embassy in Manila said it has received information that the Philippine government has placed the Philippine National Police on full alert throughout Metro Manila.
In addition, the embassy said a unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines has been deployed to Quezon City to assist the PNP with security operations.
It further pointed out that the AFP will assist in implementing random checkpoints, security patrols, and police visibility operations.
In the security message, the embassy reminded US citizens of the most recent worldwide caution, dated March 6, which indicates there is an ongoing threat of terrorist actions and violence against US citizens and interests abroad, including the Philippines.
It said extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, markets, mass transportation systems – including airlines – and other public venues where large crowds gather such as crowded nightclubs, shopping malls, buses, and popular restaurants.
“US citizens should be mindful of the importance of taking preventive measures to ensure their safety and security while traveling and residing in the Philippines,” the US Embassy stressed. (Roy C. Mabasa)