Tawi-Tawi steps up security

TAWI-TAWI, Philippines (Mindanao Examiner / June 11, 2010) – Police stepped security in the southern Filipino province of Tawi-Tawi near the Sabah border with Malaysia as part of larger security control aimed at flushing out wanted persons and criminals.

Senior Superintendent Mipunud Maruhum, the provincial police chief, said family feud and clan war also added up to the problems in Tawi-Tawi. The province is also where criminals from other provinces such as Sulu and Basilan hide to evade arrest.

"Family feud and clan war and criminals and wanted persons are what we are now giving attention. We have stepped up security to prevent criminalities and maintain peace and order in Tawi-Tawi, especially now that classes have began,” he told the Mindanao Examiner.

He said the local police force have also intensified gun control to prevent the proliferation of illegal weapons.

Tawi-Tawi is just several hours away from the Malaysian state of Sabah where there are many Filipinos. (Becky de Asis)