Cebu is safe

CEBU - Authorities have assured that Cebu is safe and secured following reports that Abu Sayyaf rebels infiltrated the province.

Police and military officials also met recently with Gov. Hilario Davide III and said there have been no confirmed reports of Abu Sayyaf presence in Cebu.

The U.S. Embassy in Manila has issued a security alert for all American citizens travelling to the Philippines and warned them of risk of kidnapping in southern Cebu, specifically the areas around Dalaguete, Santander and Sumilon Island

Chief Supt. Noli Taliño, the regional police chief, has assured the public that there is no cause for alarm.

“There is nothing to worry about. The government is on top of the situation.we assure the public and the tourists that they are safe in Cebu and in the region,” Taliño said.

Although there is no direct threat to security in Cebu, police and military have deployed more forces in the province.

The Philippine Army also said that it is ready to support the police with soldiers ready for deployment at anytime in case of emergencies.

Cebu provincial police chief Senior Supt. Eric Noble also inspected tourist areas in southern Cebu and met with policemen. “Cebu is the safest place in the Philippines now,” he said.

Noble said they are set to meet with resort owners to solicit their support to the heightened security measures as well as the police anti-drugs campaign in Cebu.