CEBU City, Jan. 27,2016 – Interior and Local Government Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento said he is satisfied with the security measures provided by the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the ongoing 51st International Eucharistic Congress, ably supported by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law enforcement agencies.
In an interview, Sarmiento said the partnership and cooperation between the private and public sectors made the IEC a success.
During an interview at the IEC Pavillon where he was conducting an on-the-spot inspection, he added they also have operatives who conduct incognito random inspection at various venues.
8,000 police
Asked about potential threat groups to the international religious activities at IEC in Cebu City, Sarmiento said they have considered every possible aspect which led them to deploy some 8,000 police personnel.
Sarmiento said he was sent by President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino to oversee the security blanket.
“We’ve also augmented our elements with those from other nearby provinces,” Sarmiento added.
Remaining vigilant
He said the PNP cannot do the job alone as he sought the general public’s support to remain vigilant against possible lawless elements.
“The PNP chief (Director General Ricardo Marquez) will also check on the security situation within a day or two,” Sarmiento added.
The 51st IEC organizers said they’ve exceeded their expectations of 15,000 participants. (Melo M. Acuña / CBCP News)