Northern Mindanao Is Peaceful, Cops Say

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (Rutchie Aguhob / 30 Mar) Northern Mindanao remains one of the most peaceful region in the southern Phillipines and tourists continue to flock to enjoy the start of the long summer vacation, police said Thursday.

And all these because of the tight security the authorities are implementing to ensure the safety of citizens, despite hightened attacks by communist insurgents in other parts of Mindanao, said Chief Supt. Florante Baguio, commander of the regional police force.

"The peace and order situation within our area of responsibility remains generally peaceful and enduring despite the intensification of tactical offensives by the communist terrorists," Baguio, also the chairman of the Regional Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee, said.

A member of Philippine Military Academy "Makabayan" Class of 1975, Baguio assumed as new commander of the Philippine National Police in Northern Mindanao, after Chief Supt. Dante Tejada retired last year.

Baguio, former chief of the PNP's Task Force on Anti-Illegal Gambling, also lauded policemen for their dedication to their service and accomplishments.

He said the police arrested a total of 214 wanted persons, including senior members of the outlawed Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People's Army and National Democratic Front.