DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 25 October) – Despite its status as a “soft target,” the Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Hall of Justice in Davao City lacks comprehensive security plans, according to the Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO). Retired Police Lt. Colonel Angel Sumagaysay, PSSO chief, highlighted during a simulation exercise on Saturday—covering scenarios such as hostage-taking, active shooting, and improvised explosive device explosion—that the building lacks critical communication equipment to alert personnel of threats. Sumagaysay noted that the building, housing the Regional Trial Court (RTC) and other judiciary offices, also lacks coordination with the security cluster. He emphasized the need for a proper Security Survey Inspection by PSSO to comply with city safety regulations, including the CCTV ordinance. Sumagaysay revealed that the security cluster had only two meetings before the exercise but acknowledged it revealed the building’s preparedness for serious threats. Rowena Apao-Adlawan, RTC-Davao Executive Judge, admitted she was unaware of the Hall of Justice’s security shortcomings but expressed confidence in the willingness of others to assist court personnel. Meanwhile, Col. Mannan C. Muarip, Davao City Police Office acting director, assured the security cluster is ready to counter any terrorist attack or disruptive actions. The exercise, involving hostage-taking and bombing scenarios, included building and security personnel, SWAT units, and K-9 and medical teams. Sumagaysay announced plans for a second simulation exercise at the Hall of Justice and intends to expand these exercises to establishments in the city’s “maximum security zone,” a first for the region. (Daniel Jamito/MindaNews)
