Massive Security Deployment in Iloilo for ASEAN Economic Integration Summit
A formidable force of 1,707 security personnel stood at attention during a formal send-off ceremony on February 20, 2026, at the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) grandstand. This significant mobilization is a critical component of the comprehensive security preparations for the upcoming 49th Meeting of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration.
Confidence in Capabilities and Commitment
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, who serves as the regional director of PRO 6 and commander of the ASEAN Site Task Group Iloilo, addressed the assembled forces with unwavering confidence. "We trust in your abilities, we believe in your commitment, and we are truly proud of the dedication you consistently show in the performance of your responsibilities," General Ligan stated, underscoring the high expectations placed upon the security detail.
Composition of the Deployed Forces
The deployment comprises a robust mix of personnel from various security branches:
- 1,547 personnel from the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO 6).
- 160 augmentation forces provided by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Air Defense units.
This collaborative effort highlights the multi-agency approach to ensuring a secure environment for the international gathering.
Government and Official Support
The ceremony was graced by key government and security officials, demonstrating a unified front. Attendees included:
- Lawyer Sedfrey Cabaluna, Iloilo City councilor, representing Mayor Raisa Treñas.
- Brigadier General Joey Escanillas, assistant division commander of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID), Philippine Army.
- Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan.
In his message, Councilor Cabaluna conveyed the full support of the Iloilo City Government. "I know that Iloilo City is in capable hands. As your City Government, we will remain fully committed to doing our part to ensure that these ASEAN-related events will be peaceful, orderly, and well managed. To our police officers, soldiers, force multipliers, and all our security personnel, thank you from the bottom of my heart," he affirmed.
Purpose and Security Measures for the ASEAN Meeting
The 49th Meeting of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration is scheduled from February 24 to 27, 2026, at the Iloilo Marriott Hotel. This regional meeting will convene policymakers to deliberate on crucial economic integration initiatives aimed at fostering regional cooperation and development.
Authorities have emphasized that extensive planning is in place to guarantee the event's security. This includes:
- Continuous intelligence monitoring to preempt any potential threats.
- Close coordination with local government units to ensure seamless operations.
- Implementation of robust security protocols throughout the four-day summit.
The PRO 6 has stated that this large-scale deployment not only underscores its readiness to secure international events hosted in the Western Visayas region but also reaffirms its commitment to maintaining public safety and order during high-profile gatherings.
