Manila, Feb. 25 -- Police are tightening security in Tawi-Tawi to stop high-profile fugitives from fleeing through "backdoor exits."

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Wednesday said he ordered provincial police to boost presence in areas allegedly used as escape routes.

"I have instructed the provincial police in Tawi-Tawi to heighten police presence in the areas being used by suspects who want to escape and leave the country," he said in a statement.

"This is a strategic measure to secure our borders and deny fugitives and all law offenders the opportunity to escape justice and accountability."

Nartatez said the PNP, coordinating with other agencies, has identified these routes and will deploy ...