MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--To enhance security for tourists and tourist areas in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BAR), the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) and the Philippine National Police-Police Regional Office (PNP PRO BAR) signed on Tuesday, Feb. 1, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the implementation of the Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) program.

Aside from enhancing security, TOPCOP will also ensure the special and proper handling of tourist-related security and safety issues.

TOPCOP is a national program of the PNP in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), which aims to strengthen both agencies’ relationship in providing a safe and secure environment for tourists, and ensuring the availability of tourist police in tourist destinations nationwide including in BARMM.

MTIT Minister Abuamri Taddik explained that the MOU will further intensify already existing collaboration and coordination with law enforcers in securing tourists and bringing peace in the region.

“We need to work hand in hand to create a new impression to our place to entice tourists both local and foreign,” Taddik said.

Meanwhile, PRO-BAR Regional Director Police Brigadier General Eden Ugale said the PRO BAR acknowledged the potential of BARMM being home to a diverse and colorful culture that has flourished and preserved for hundreds of years.

“Through this synergy of initiatives and efforts, we will send a strong message that we are serious about thoroughly creating our region as a safe destination for everyone,” Ugale added.

Also present on Tuesday’s event were MTIT Deputy Minister Atty. Sukarno Abas, MTIT Director General Rosslaini Alonto-Sinarimbo, PRO BAR Deputy Regional Director PCol. Jefrey Fernandez, and TOPCOP Focal PCol. Ganaban C. Ali. (Abdullah Matucan/BIO)