DUMAGUETE CITY - Security forces in Negros Oriental and Siquijor were on heightened alert following intelligence reports that a group of terrorists were spotted near Cebu, where the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) meetings were held.

The information came through the Maritime Safety and Security Task Group of the Task Force Leon Kilat, authorities said.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have ramped up security throughout the Negros Oriental and Siquijor, especially in points of entry and exit such as ports, airports, and terminals.

Cops were also deployed to public areas including tourist spots, resorts and hotels frequented by local and foreign travelers.

Efforts to improve security came after 10 suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf clashed with police and the military on the resort island of Bohol.

At least 9 were dead in Inabanga, Bohol, authorities said.

• Read: Several killed as Abu Sayyaf, military clash in Bohol