AFP activates joint task groups to boost Palawan security

The Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Western Command (AFP-WESCOM) strengthened its security forces in the province of Palawan with the activation of Joint Task Group Puerto Princesa (JTGPP) over the weekend.

Lt. Gen. Rozzano Briguez, commander of the AFP-WESCOM, said the JTGPP will work under the operational control of Joint Task Force Peacock, which is WESCOM’s ground component in its joint area of operations.

“[The] JTGPP is in charge of the conduct of internal peace and security operations in Puerto Princesa City, complementing the security efforts of Joint Task Groups North and South, thereby covering the entire province of Palawan,” Briguez said during the activation rites last Saturday at the headquarters of the 3rd Marine Brigade in Barangay Tiniguiban, Puerto Princesa.

Briguez said the JTGPP will be under the tutelage of a newly-designated commander, Lt. Col. Dante Robert Grasparil.

The JTGPP is mandated to conduct urban security operations and shall support different law enforcement agencies within Puerto Princesa City, Briguez stated.

Among the duties of the JTGPP include the conduct of mobile and foot patrols in commercial centers, people’s point of convergence and other vital installations and facilities in the city; the provision of security coverage to the airport, seaport, wharfs and other point of entry thru waterways; and the conduct of random riverine checkpoints and security patrols to deny entry of lawless elements.

Puerto Princesa Mayor Lucilo Bayron, who was the guest of honor, expressed gratitude to the military with its support to the island province through security provision.

“The city of Puerto Princesa is grate- ful for the activation of the Joint Task Group Puerto Princesa because of the security it will provide to our constitu- ents. It gives us the assurance that the city is safe for all local residents and tourists,” he said.