New agency to take over security operations slowly

CEBU, Philippines —  The new agency that won the bidding to secure the Cebu City Hall and its other properties will be gradually taking over security enforcement.

In an interview, Cebu City Vice Mayor Alvin Raymond Garcia confirmed to the media that as the acting mayor of Cebu City, he had already signed the necessary documents to officially have JDA Security Agency take over security functions at the city hall.

"Hopefully it can be fully implemented soon, kay imong makita, gamay pa kay I think gradual ilang pag take over depending…kay naa man sad gud mi mga request na we want some securities to be retained, basin sad ipa absorb nila," said Garcia.

Among the requests of the city hall departments, including the Vice Mayor's Office is to absorb and retain the security guards of the previous security agency, GDS Security Agency. The city government has decided to terminate the contract of GDS Security Agency earlier this year after several concerns with their service.

With this request, Garcia said he will be leaving this decision-making and negotiations to the Civil Security Unit (CSU).

Further, Garcia said the assessment of these security guards is still in the process, saying that they are working closely with the new security agency.

Last Thursday night, members of the JDA Security Agency started to take over the security of Cebu City Hall. Garcia, however, added that it may take time for the full implementation of the 240 security guards.

According to Garcia, his firm instructions are to prioritize security in areas where government properties are stored, especially those i the warehouses.

"You never know, baha…wa gyud ta kabalo unsay mahitabo," said Garcia.

As to the force multipliers previously deployed around the Cebu City Hall while the bidding process is ongoing, Garcia said they will not be pulled out yet since JDA security agency is yet to be fully implemented.

The force multipliers from the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office will be however relieved as the city also anticipates heavy rains over the weekend and next week.

"Para katong mga employees sa disaster can go back to where they belong," said Garcia. (CEBU NEWS)