AFP, PNP on high alert in Metro Manila after warnings on terror attacks

Security forces are on a "highest alert" status in the National Capital Region as a precautionary measure after various countries, including the United States, issued travel advisories warning of possible terror attacks in the Philippines. "We are now at full red alert according to the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines)," presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said in a press briefing in Malacañang on Wednesday. When asked if both the AFP and the Philippine National Police (PNP) are on their highest alert levels, Lacierda answered in the affirmative. Lacierda said the alert status was carried over from the the recent Undas season where security forces were on the highest alert as millions of people traditionally flock to cemeteries in observance of All Souls' Day (November 2). The Palace spokesman said the government is verifying reports of possible terrorist attacks as stated in the travel advisories of the US, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. "We are working with our allies in order to validate the intelligence information and coordinate possible responses should the need arise," he said. However, he noted that the travel advisories were just part of "a global alert of possible terorist acitivies not just in the Philippines but also in other parts of the world." "We are aware of the threats even before the advisories, that's why we monitoring them. But since advisories have been issued out we are letting the public know that we're on top of the situation, we are verifying the information," he said. Lacierda however said that he was not at liberty to disclose more information on the reports gathered by the country's intelligence forces. The Palace official also advised the public not to panic. "We just ask the public to be vigilant, take all necessary precautions," he said. Almost a week after a near attack by terrorists on its shores, the United States issued Wednesday (Manila time) a travel warning about possible attacks in the Philippines, particularly in parts of Mindanao. However, the US advisory also mentioned Manila and public places such as malls. In its travel warning dated November 2, the US State Department stated: "The State Department warns US citizens of the risks of terrorist activity in the Philippines, particularly in the southern Philippine islands of Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago. Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur not only in the southern islands but also in other areas, to include Manila." It added that targeted sites may be public gathering places frequented by expatriates and foreign travelers, including American citizens. Such sites could include "but are not limited to" airports, shopping malls, conference centers and other public venues, it added. –VVP, GMANews.TV