Massive Security Deployment Underway for ASEAN Summit 2026 in Central Visayas
In a significant move to safeguard the upcoming ASEAN Summit 2026, authorities have mobilized a formidable force of over 5,000 personnel from various government agencies across Central Visayas. This deployment aims to ensure robust security measures are in place for the high-profile international event.
Send-Off Ceremony Marks Official Launch of Security Operations
A send-off ceremony was conducted on Saturday, January 24, at the City di Mare in South Road Properties (SRP), Cebu City. The event was led by Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of the Police Regional Office (PRO-7), symbolizing the official commencement of security preparations.
Comprehensive Force Composition and Resources
According to data released by PRO-7, the security contingent comprises a diverse mix of units:
- 3,486 personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP)
- 147 members from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
- 101 officers from the Philippine Coast Guard
- 397 staff from the Bureau of Fire Protection
- 397 individuals from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD)
- 450 representatives from the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC)
Additionally, personnel from the Department of Health (DOH), Naval Forces Central (Navforcen), and Local Traffic Management units have been integrated into the security framework.
Advanced Assets and Proven Track Record
During the ceremony, General Maranan highlighted that beyond human resources, the operation is supported by extensive mobility assets and logistical resources. These include:
- 51 patrol cars
- 50 motorcycles
- Two PNP Airbus units
- Modern communication equipment for the command center
He emphasized that this force size was instrumental in the successful security management of the recent Sinulog Festival, which attracted approximately 5.2 million attendees. This experience has validated the capability of the PNP and partner agencies to handle large-scale events effectively.
ASEAN Meetings and Security Priorities in Metro Cebu
Starting Sunday, January 25, ASEAN meetings will be held across three major cities in Metro Cebu: Cebu City, Mandaue, and Lapu-Lapu. Police visibility will be intensified, with a priority on securing delegates' visits to various tourist destinations in the region.
Traffic Management Strategy to Minimize Disruption
General Maranan clarified that no major road closures are planned in Cebu City. Instead, authorities will implement a stop-and-go scheme to regulate traffic flow without causing significant disruptions. This approach aims to balance security needs with public convenience during the summit period.
