Wednesday, July 23, 2008 Security beef up for Olympic qualifying games
THE provincial command of the Philippine National Police (PNP) declared that they are now putting in place security measures for Wednesday's kick off of the 3rd Philippine Olympic Committee All Visayas Qualifying Games.
Deputy police chief Rodolfo Seranno said in a radio interview that additional police officers from Negros Oriental provincial command and its various stations in the province are sent in Dumaguete City to secure the safety of more than 1,500 athletes, coaches and sports officials.
The police personnel will also assist in maintaining peace and order in the city.
Serrano added that members of the Special Weapons and Tactics (Swat) and the provincial mobile group will help tightened the security in the city including premises occupied by the Visayas wide athletes.
The athletes will house in Piapi Elementary School, Negros Oriental High School, Negros Oriental State University, West City Elementary School, and Dumaguete City High School.
Serrano said policemen assigned in the area will have a 24 hours routine to thwart any plan by criminals to victimize the athletes.
Meanwhile, top Philippine Olympic Officials are also expected to be here for the kick off activities.
Leading the pack of the visitors is Frank Elizalde, a representative of the International Olympics Committee to the Philippines.
Elizalde will personally witness Wednesday's kick off activities.
Philippine Olympic technical committee vice chairman Nestor Ilagan said Roberto Abentajado who chairs the Philippine Olympic Festival, accompanied by officials of the Philippine Sports Commission, are expected arrive in the city for the activity.
Records showed that the Olympic Festival will be participated in by 11 local government units from Eastern, Western and Central Visayas.
About 1, 500 athletes, coaches and National Association Officials will participate in the said sports event. (EBS)
