‘Enhanced’ security guards support for safer Boracay

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

Don't let the terrorists stop you from travelling.

The Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 is working hand in hand with security agencies to strengthen the support of security guards for a safer Boracay Island.

                              PHOTO AKLAN FORUM JOURNAL

Senior Superintendent Jomil John Trio, regional officer of Civil Security Group (CSG), said the police are tapping the services of security guards in Boracay Island as ‘force multipliers’ in every emergency situation amid the tension and conflict in Mindanao.

Security guards of establishments, resorts and hotels in Stations 1 to 3 will be grouped into three clusters. These clusters are headed by Boracay Tourist Assistance Center (BTAC) commissioned police officers tasked to respond to any threats or terror attacks.

“They could react, monitor, respond and be alert also on emergencies. The security guards are ‘extension’ of the police to maintain security in the establishments. Dapat concern din sila sa security ng mga turista sa Boracay, hindi lang pang-dekorasyon,” he explained.

Trio said the recent Boracay security summit with the security managers, security agencies and police officers emphasized the need to boost security measures in the island against crimes and to enhance their cooperation with the local police.  

He also raised concerns over the ‘shooting incidents’ involving security guards in land disputes in Boracay.

Trio cited SOP No. 007-08 or the guidelines and procedures for security agencies in the deployment of security guards on properties with conflicting claims.

“Before any legal action or court orders, no private security agencies should enter into contract with any client on properties or establishments with existing conflicting claims without the written permission from the police and clearances from the court,” he said.

Although private security agencies are governed by Republic Act No. 5457, Trio likewise urged the Malay Sangguniang Bayan to formulate an ordinance to regulate the operations of security agencies as well as the deployment of security guards in disputed lands in Malay, Aklan.

The article was originally published by independent online blog Aklan Forum Journal. The unrestricted use in print or radio, publication and distribution of articles are allowed provided the original author and Aklan Forum Journal are credited.