Philippine police on full alert for President Arroyo's trip

The Philippine National Police (PNP) went on full alert starting Saturday morning in connection with the trip to Europe of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and the anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks in the United States.

According to PNP Director General Oscar Calderon, the full alert was declared at 6 a.m. Saturday. A full alert means all PNP personnel in all units are required to stay at their posts.

"Although there is no imminent or direct threat on any specific target, all our security measures are in place to guard vital facilities and infrastructures against any terrorist activity, and police units are on alert to respond to any contingency," Calderon said in a statement.

He ordered the Aviation Security Group, the Maritime Group and all local police units to implement strict security measures in all airports, seaports and terminals of mass transport systems.

President Arroyo left Saturday morning for an 11-day trip to Finland, Germany, Belgium and other destinations. She will return to the Philippines on Sept. 18.

Source: Xinhua