PNP goes on full alert for SEA Games

POLICE units in Metro Manila, Central Luzon and Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) were placed on full alert beginning Monday, November 25, as part of security measures for the upcoming 30th Southeast Asian Games (SEAG).

PNP spokesperson Brigadier General Bernard Banac said the highest security alert will be in effect in these areas from 8 a.m. Monday until December 14.

He said the PNP Highway Patrol Group (HPG), Special Action Force (SAF) and Maritime Group were also placed under full alert.

"All police regional offices and national administrative units will be on heightened alert status," said Banac.

Under a full alert status, policemen are not allowed to go on leave or enjoy a day off to ensure efficient deployment in concerned areas. Heightened alert, meanwhile, means that at least 50 percent of policemen must be present and ready for deployment.

Police earlier said a total of 47,000 security forces will be deployed to secure all the venues for 530 sports events in Laguna, Bulacan, Tagaytay, Subic and New Clark City sports complex in Capas, Tarlac.

In Metro Manila alone, some 17,734 security personnel from several law enforcement agencies were deployed.

PNP officer-in-charge Lieutenant General Archie Gamboa has said they are targeting zero casualty during the sports event from November 30 to December 11.

The event is seen to draw nearly 10,000 athletes from Southeast Asia. (SunStar Philippines)