By Rose B. Palacio

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo R. Duterte, who is also the chair of the peace and order council in the region instructed the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the military to be on maximum alert after the bombing incidents that happened in various parts of Central Mindanao, the latest was in Makilala North Cotabato which killed 6 persons and wounded about 29.

Mayor Duterte publicly announced that maximum inspection is being conducted along highways, terminals, airports, and that securities was tightened in vital installations, churches and institutions.

“Maximum alert means any terroristic plot is likely and we have to be prepared at all times for our people to be “out of harm’s way.” My priority has been always the security of the citizenry”, the Mayor said.

“Let’s avoid crowds” for the meantime that we are on a maximum terror alert, security personnel should always be on extra alert. Another bombing incident would cause considerable loss of lives and I don’t want for another one to happen, the local chief executive added.

The Mayor publicly announced a high alert level warning calling for public vigilance that should be high and unrelenting at all times as the Administration issued a new warning of terror attacks from JI leaders outside the country that serves as a reminder of the threat of reprisal bombings which might arise due to the Sulu offensive where some 6,000 strong force are hunting some 200 ASG members.

On the reported peace process that was linked on the recent North Cotabato Makilala bombings, Peace negotiator Secretary Jesus Dureza said there is an impasse in the negotiation and the government peace panel is working with all stakeholders to strike a way forward.