MHC conducts counter-terrorism simulation exercise, undergoes security audit
Anti-terrorism drill (from left:) Christian De Guzman, MHC deputy security manager; PSSG Chito Jesus De Guzman, MPD EOD team member; Raymund Y. Fran, MHC security manager and port facility security officer; Nathaniel E. Laxa, ret. US Navy Anti-terrorism instructor; PSMS Alejandro G. Pancho, MPD EOD team leader; PCPL. Jobannie O. Balanon, MPD EOD team member; and Ricky G. Nicor, MHC security inspector
Manila Harbor Center (MHC), in coordination with the Manila Police District Explosive Ordinance Division , held a counter-terrorism simulation exercise as part of preparations for the renewal of its International Ship and Port Facility Security certification in June.
Spearheaded by the MHC Security Department and supervised by Ret. US Navy Anti-Terrorism Instructor Nathaniel E. Laxa, the exercise aimed to test the response capability of the terminal’s employees and security personnel to possible threats that could endanger lives and disrupt port operations. It also served as a good opportunity to test the terminal’s robust security system and enhance existing port policies, plans and programs. This exercise also helps strengthen collaboration among employees and other port users, which is an important factor in ensuring safety and security during emergency situations.
MHC will continue to conduct security exercises every quarter to enhance employee awareness of the company’s security policies and procedures.
In addition to the counter-terrorism exercise, MHC was also subjected to the renewal audit by the Department of Transportation’s Office for Transportation Security (DOTr-OTS). The audit included the review of MHC’s Port Facility Security Plan in compliance with the ISPS requirements and inspection of MHC’s facilities.
Renewal audit (from left): Elsie G. Alcanar and Myra R. Cristobal, DOTr-OTS auditors, with Raymund Y. Fran, MHC security manager and port facility security officer; Christian De Guzman, MHC deputy security manager; and Ricky G. Nicor, MHC security inspector