Businesses must have good asset protection program

CEBU, Philippines - Contrary to the booming business climate in Cebu, a security professional said that the asset protection industry has not grown to the same level and pace as that of the economic development of the province. 

Ace and Associates Risk Management, Inc. Managing Director Augustus Caesar Esmeralda said that although businesses appreciate the importance of asset protection they are not updated on the current security trends.

Having a sound  asset protection program is good for a company as it is a strong foundation against losses, and it enhances the value of the projects or products, Esmeralda pointed out.

“Asset protection is a good investment for existing and emerging industries in Cebu due to the changing security landscape in this part of the country,” he told The FREEMAN. 

Esmeralda noted that companies should recognize the importance of the security program from the conceptualization of the project to the execution of management for the general welfare of their stakeholders, management, tenants, employees and end-users.

“Companies with effective asset protection group are less exposed to unknown and known risks,” he stated.

He further suggested a security design in every project a company plans to venture into such as in the fields of real estate, resorts, hotels, and construction industries.

He added that security design concepts should also focus on training and organization of the asset protection groups which will become the managers and implementers of the asset protection program. 

He cited that employers especially human resource managers should be able to identify and recruit qualified persons to take responsibility in protecting corporate assets.

“The challenge here is finding the right mix of people. In Cebu for example, there are many security agencies but are they qualified?” he said.

Esmeralda then recommended getting a consultant to organize detection groups for companies.

Esmeralda is a Certified Protection Professional, Certified Security Professional, and Certified Campus Security Manager. 

He is also currently the Regional Vice President of ASIS International, Region 33 – Philippines and the Editor-in-Chief of SecurityMatters Magazine.

His company, Ace and Associates provides holistic security management services with emphasis on convergence of all aspects of security from conception to implementation.  

SecurityMatters Magazine, in partnership with ASIS International – Philippine Chapter conducted the 2nd Asset Protection Lecture Series (APLS) and the ASIS International – Philippines National Convention from November 27 to 29 at Parklane International Hotel.

Following the success of the Metro Manila Edition held last April 18 to 20 at The Bayleaf, Intramuros, the second leg for the Visayas region is intended to cover security-related issues and concerns and include key industry subject areas like the current trends and challenges, and to provide the chance to network with established individuals in various industries.  

The ongoing event is attended by security and protection professionals from different industries such as mining, power plants, bottling companies, hotels, manufacturing, and banks in the Visayas and Mindanao regions. (FREEMAN)