CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, June 26 (PIA) — Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (Cocpo) Spokesperson PSupt Mardi Hortillosa assured the public during Talakayan sa PIA on June 20 that they are implementing strengthened security measures and the whole of community approach to combat threats of terrorism.
With threat in close proximity especially during Marawi siege and now with military operations of remnants of Maute group in Lanao del Sur, Cocpo is on high alert to make sure there is no spillover in the city.
Hortillosa shared they have implemented border control during Marawi siege. “Dili makasulod sa dali-dali.. walang makakapasok unless we check thoroughly together with Philippine Army under Task Force Oro. Lahat ng mga entrance dito sa Cagayan de Oro, we have a strong checkpoint (They cannot enter easily; nobody can enter unless we check thoroughly with Philippine Army under Task Force Oro. All entrances here in Cagayan de Oro have a strong checkpoint).”
Cocpo also conducted a prophylactic and preventive patrol in the hinterland barangays in partnership with the 4th Infantry Division (4ID). They provide police visibility and created quick reaction team, martial law special action group under 4ID.
In fact, he said, during Marawi siege, “Mayroon tayong bomber na nahuli, financier, at maraming bala na confiscate natin dati. We expected na papunta yun doon sa Marawi (We caught a bomber and a financier and confiscated lots of bullets. We expected those are meant for Marawi).”
There was very close intel fusion, sharing of information, he added.
“We tapped the barangay, homeowners’ association, security agencies,” Hortillosa said.
He also said Cocpo needs the help of the people; even if they can give only a bit of information. He added the intelligence of army is superb, including the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA). That’s why they have responded accordingly.
Hortillosa further said even though there is no report, they continuously strengthen security measures.
Thus, they also have the so-called whole of community approach where they have tapped barangays through its information network to help law enforcers gather information.
CDO is safe, he reassured. However, the public must still be vigilant and be responsible in reporting to police any form of crimes and not just post on social media. (JMOR/PIA10) by Jasper Marie O. Rucat
