The Panglao government last week formed the Panglao Resorts Security Officers (PARSO) in a bid to maintain order and heighten security particularly in crowded areas of the tourist destination.

According to Mayor Leonila Montero, they enlisted the aid of policemen, barangay officials and hotel and resort management to be a part of PARSO which will conduct security operations round the clock.

PARSO was also created to boost security when delegates of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit visit the town which will be among the meeting venues of the event.

Around 300 dignitaries from the 10-nation bloc are expected to stay for three days in Panglao, said Montero.

PARSO will be maintained even after the event as preparation for big activities in the municipality which is the location of the New Bohol Airport, Montero added.

The group has also been tasked to monitor waters off Panglao to ensure the safety of the many tourists that visit the town. (Allen Doydora)