ALL eyes will be on the Philippines as it hosts the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.
Beyond the diplomatic engagements, the country’s ability to guarantee the safety of visiting leaders and delegates will be put to the test.
Philippine National Police Chief PGen. Jose Melencio “Tateng” Nartatez Jr. has mobilized nearly 20,000 police personnel for the massive security operation, reflecting the scale of preparations required for this international gathering.
At the forefront is National Capital Region Police Office Director PBGen. Christopher Abrahano, whose responsibility includes securing Metro Manila, the center of the summit activities.
His command must ensure effective intelligence gathering, threat monitoring, police visibility, traffic coordination and security at airports, hotels, summit venues and motorcade routes.
The Multi-Agency Coordination Center in Pasay City also plays an important role in strengthening surveillance and coordination among security agencies.
No doubt, Nartatez and Abrahano, together with other police officials and thousands of personnel, are working hard to ensure a peaceful and orderly summit.
But this enormous responsibility does not rest on their shoulders alone.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., as head of state, also carries the responsibility of ensuring that all government agencies work together to protect the visiting dignitaries and the Filipino people.
Equally important, ordinary Metro Manila residents must not be neglected. Criminals must not be allowed to exploit the concentration of police resources on summit security.
Ultimately, a peaceful ASEAN Summit will be a collective national achievement, reflecting the country’s readiness to protect its guests, safeguard its people and fulfill its international responsibilities.
