37 more security guards can now secure VIPs

CEBU, Philippines - Another batch of security guards successfully completed the 10-day training with the Police Regional Office 7 that would enable them to serve as Temporary Security Detail to vice mayors and councilors.

Chief Supt. Ruben Padua, Director of Civil Security Group, said the 37 security guards will be deployed as security detail to individuals who need their services, especially if no PNP personnel can be available to secure these Very Important Persons or VIP’s.

“This aims to support the PNP for candidate security. We admit nga ang PNP di kaya mo-provide og security nga kami ra. We really need the support of the community,” Padua said.

PRO-7 Director Lani-O Nerez, for his part, said they will continue the program in anticipation of VIPs and other private individuals requesting for TSDs even after the election.

“I think there’s still a need to continue the program kay even after the election, naa pa na’y mag-request (for TSDs). So instead nga PNP, mahimo sila (security guards) na maoy i-provide,” Nerez said.

Two months ago, 47 security guards complete the training and were subsequently deployed to VIPs, including mayors. They are now being referred to as “protective agents.”

The security guards, including those who finished the training yesterday, were recommended by different agencies in Central Visayas. The training they underwent is the same training undertaken by police security details.

Unlike police security details whose services are free, Nerez said the security guards will be paid and, unlike the police, can work for the VIP anytime their services are needed.

The payment for the security guards will be decided by their respective agencies and the VIP getting their services. The application to avail of their services, however, would need to go through the PNP and the Commission on Elections.

Nerez said applicants for security detail started pouring in since the start of the Comelec gun ban last January 10. The gun ban is being implemented for the duration of the election period by recalling the firearms permits of government security forces, as well as private individuals acting as bodyguards to politicians.

Comelec officials said no civilian can get the exemption, only security guards, law enforcement agencies, PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Those affected by the revocation can reapply for a security detail with the Comelec. (FREEMAN NEWS)