By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The head of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army, Major General Jon Aying, has ordered army commanders in Negros Occidental to double security and coordinate with police after reports indicated movement by the Abu Sayyaf terror group in the Sulu Sea.
During an interview at the Provincial Capitol yesterday, Aying validated the information, saying there is possible movement by Muslim extremists and kidnappers in Mindanao.
He said they will coordinate with local police in the various towns and cities throughout the province in order to secure coastal areas, beach resorts, and residences owned by foreigners.
Aside from the terror threat, Aying added, the orders he gave are also routine since the army is already on high alert due to the observance of Holy Week.
Earlier, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) station in Bacolod received information regarding plans by Abu Sayyaf to target beach resorts surrounding the Sulu Sea area by kidnapping tourists.
PCG, however, stated the southern part of the province is not covered by the threat, although they are concerned over areas in neighboring Negros Oriental.
The United States Embassy also released a travel advisory to its citizens to avoid traveling to Cebu and Bohol islands./WDJ