MRT-3, LRT-2 security tightened as PNP places Metro Manila under ‘full alert’

The Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3) and Light Rail Transit Line 2 (LRT-2)  tightened security measures in all of their stations after the Philippine National Police (PNP) put Metro Manila under a “full alert” due to the recent bombings in Mindanao.

According to Joseph Morong’s report on “24 Oras,” MRT-3 passengers were temporarily prohibited from carrying several items into stations that may pose a risk, including all kinds of firearms, bladed weapons, and flammable substances.

Also banned were toxic chemicals, lighters, matches, pesticides, muriatic acid, liquid hydrogen, and other similar items.

MRT-3 General Manager Michael Capati clarified that the tightened security was only a preventive measure and they had not received information that trains were being targeted.

“Wala naman kaming nakukuhang impormasyong na, specifically, na ganyan… Baka sakaling, mamaya, dumating sa Maynila. Naka-ready tayo,” said Capati.

(We did not receive any specific information. We’re just implementing it for us to be ready should it happen in Manila.)

Apart from inspecting passengers’ baggage and having K9 dogs roaming around the premises, similar security measures were also being implemented in all LRT-2 stations.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command previously said it was eyeing local terrorist group Abu Sayaff as the perpetrators behind the twin bombings in Isabela City, Basilan. Local politics and extortion were among the possible motives for the explosions.

“Itong mga pagbobomba na nangyari ay masasabi nating malungkot na kaganapan kasi ito'y nagdala ng takot sa ating mga kababayan. Ngunit hindi ibig sabihin na merong ganitong pambobomba ay lumalakas itong local terrorists groups,” AFP Spokesperson Col. Ramon Zagala said.

(The recent bombings are saddening because they frighten fellow Filipinos. However, this doesn’t mean local terrorist groups are getting stronger again.)

Meanwhile, the PNP warned its police commanders against laxity in guarding their areas of responsibility. PNP Region 9 said it was looking at “lapses” in its intelligence gathering and implementation of security measures in Isabela City. — Sundy Locus/DVM, GMA News