RP tightens security for Blair's visit

RP tightens security for Blair's visit

PHILIPPINES: The military tightened security on Sunday in the
strife-torn island-province of Basilan and placed troops on alert
for a visit by Adm. Dennis Blair, commander-in-chief of the U.S.
Pacific Command.

Blair arrived in Manila and will fly south on Monday to meet
with Philippine military officials, including Southern Command
chief Lt. Gen. Roy Cimatu in Zamboanga, said U.S. military
spokeswoman Maj. Cynthia Teramae.

Blair, who retires from his post May 2, is also expected to
visit American forces stationed on nearby Basilan, said
Philippine Col. Alexander Aleo.

Blair will visit Americans stationed at the Philippine Army
base in Basilan's capital, Isabela, where he will be briefed by
U.S. Special Forces commander Col. Donald Maxwell on the
exercise's progress, Aleo said. --AP