MALAYBALAY CITY--Security preparations for Bukidnoon's annual Kaamulan Festival are already in place, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Army’s 403rd Brigade said.
Col. Roland Orquia, 403rd brigade deputy commander, said the heightened security measures would take effect despite the absence of imminent security threats.
"We must be cautious at all times considering that terrorists usually strike at very opportune time when everybody is unprepared,” Col. Orquia said.
Orquia said the military would assist the local police in providing security, including the deployment of troops in the Kaamulan grounds and other strategic locations.
"We will also deploy a K-9 bomb sniffing dogs, specifically during big events,” the Army official added.
Sr. Supt. Benedicto Pintor, Bukidnon police provincial director, said all security plans are already in place.
On top of checkpoints, Pintor said plainclothes police officers would also be deployed in strategic areas.
Pintor has called on participants to observe security protocol to be implemented on March 24, during the festival's main event--the Kaamulan Street dancing.
“On March 24, we will ban the bringing or carrying of backpacks, umbrella, dark eyeglasses and bull cap in the center oval where the performers present their dances,” he said.
Kaamulan is an annual gathering of the seven tribes of the province namely Bukidnon, Higaonon, Talaandig, Manobo, Matisalug, Umayamnon and Tigwahanon. (Mel B. Madera/PNA)
