[h1]Report: Philpost admits handicaps in detecting terror plot[/h1]gmanews.tv
Amid foreign governments’ warnings of possible terrorist attacks on the Philippines, faulty equipment and insufficient training are hounding at least one of the agencies expected to be in the frontline against terror threat.
Radio dwIZ reported early Wednesday the Philippine Postal Corp. (Philpost) admitted its personnel are forced to sort packages manually as its main x-ray machine is currently down.
Philpost officer-in-charge Postmaster-General Antonio de Guzman also admitted his personnel may not be knowledgeable enough about explosives commonly used by terrorists, the report said.
De Guzman asked government for training programs for Philpost personnel to identify and handle explosives in packages, as well as for funds to repair its equipment.
The Philpost is expected to be one of the frontline agencies against terrorism, following a foiled terrorist attempt on the
United States involving explosives placed in packages.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard beefed up security at tourist destinations for possible terrorist attacks.
Radio dzBB’s Carlo Mateo reported Coast Guard commandant Admiral Wilfredo Tamayo ordered a tight watch on destinations like Aklan, Bohol, Boracay, Cebu and Mindoro.
Even as the Philippine government has repeatedly downplayed terrorist threat in the country, Australia and the United Kingdom issued travel
advisories Tuesday for its nationals on possible terrorist attacks.
Meanwhile,
Canada on Wednesday joined UK and Australia and also issued an advisory to its nationals to maintain a high level of personal security awareness.
“Continuing reports suggest that there is an ongoing terrorist threat to Westerners and Western interests in the Philippines. Bomb attacks could occur at any time in Manila and other key cities. Targets could include places frequented by foreigners such as large shopping malls and convention centers. Visitors can expect to be subject to frequent security checks at public and private facilities, including shopping malls and public transportation. Travel at night outside of metropolitan areas should be avoided," Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada said in its
travel advisory updated Wednesday, Manila time.
It added Canadians should maintain a high level of personal security awareness at all times and avoid any protests, demonstrations, political rallies and large gatherings.
The advisory told Canadians in the Philippines to remain vigilant and comply with all security procedures
“Bombings and crime-related shootings have occurred in Mindanao, Manila and other parts of the country, and explosive devices continue to be discovered by security authorities. Canadians should be vigilant and comply with all security procedures," it said.
Since Sunday, the Philippine government had allayed fears of a terrorist attack on the country following a foiled attack on the United States.
Like Australia and the UK, the Philippines is perceived as a likely terrorist target due to its being a staunch ally of the United States.
Earlier, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said it has started
monitoring groups that may be fronts of terror groups.