BORACAY – Increased human activities due to the return of tourists in this island resort could mean a surge in crimes.
“Inaasahan naman ‘yan,” said Chief Superintendent John Bulalacao, Western Visayas police director.
On the eve of Boracay’s reopening yesterday after six months of closure for a massive cleanup, government security forces staged a “capability demonstration” dubbed “For a Safe and Secured Boracay” on the island’s famous white-sand shorelines.
“We don’t want to be an alarmist but we are preparing for possible terror attacks,” said Bulalacao.
It was one of the scenarios simulated. The others were drowning, kidnapping, hostage-taking, fire, and search and rescue.
The simulation exercises lasted for over an hour.
“We are ready, including the volunteers from nongovernment organizations, to respond to any emergency situations,” said Philippine National Police’s Director General Oscar Albayalde.
When Boracay was closed in April, 667 policemen, 19 Philippine Army soldiers, 59 coastguards, 28 Bureau of Fire Protection personnel, and 64 Philippine Navy troops were posted in the island.
There would be no pullout of policemen now that Boracay has opened, said Albayalde.
“Isa ‘yan sa binago natin sa police organization dito. Fix na ang magiging strength natin dito,” he stressed.
Prior to Boracay’s closure, the island had a regular police force of some 200 personnel. Four hundred were added during the six-month closure to ensure peace and order.
Albayalde said the Boracay police was also issued with two brand new patrol cars.
It was unclear, however, what would happen to the soldiers, coastguards, firefighters, and Navy troops.
“Along with the rebirth of Boracay, we are proud to showcase a completely overhauled security system and peace and order program that address perennial issues and concerns prior to the island’s closure,” said Albayalde.
The main police station in mainland Malay, Aklan – which has jurisdiction over Boracay – has been transferred to the island.
Also, there are now five police substations across Boracay.
Albayalde said the police will continue to help the Department of Environment and Natural Resources enforce environmental laws on the island./PN
