Over 3,000 to secure ASEAN defense execs

CEBU, Philippines — A total of 3,670 security and medical personnel have been deployed for the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and the 13th ADMM-Plus, which Lapu-Lapu City will host from October 26 to 30, 2026.

A formal sent off ceremony was held on Friday, October 23, at the Liberty Shrine in Barangay Mactan as security preparations entered full operational deployment.

The main ministerial meetings are scheduled for October 28 and 29 at the Mactan Expo Center, bringing together defense officials and delegates to discuss regional security and peace. Of the total personnel deployed, 2,312 are from the Philippine National Police (PNP), 478 from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), 60 from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), 341 from the Philippine Navy and 214 from the Philippine Army.

The deployment also includes 30 personnel from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), 155 medical personnel from the Department of Health (DOH) and 80 from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

The send-off ceremony was led by Police Lieutenant General Neri Vincent Ignacio, commander of the PNP ASEAN Security Task Force, and Police Brigadier General Arnold Abad, regional director of Police Regional Office 7 and overall commander of Task Group Central Visayas.

Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan joined the ceremony, which was organized by the Committee on Security, Peace and Order, and Emergency Preparedness and Response.

King-Chan called on the security and medical personnel to remain vigilant and professional, emphasizing their responsibility to secure venues, protect delegates and the public, and respond to emergencies.

“The success of this mission rests on the men and women entrusted with its execution,” she said.

She stressed that the personnel’s training, discipline and sound judgment would be crucial in carrying out their assignments throughout the international gathering.

King-Chan also assured the participating agencies that the city government would coordinate closely with them and fulfill its responsibilities during the summit.

The multi-agency security operation also involves other agencies like the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Foreign Affairs, Department of the Interior and Local Government Region 7, City Traffic Management System and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

The city government reaffirmed its support for the participating agencies as Lapu-Lapu prepares to host the regional defense meetings next week.

“Their readiness reflects the importance of coordination, discipline, and the Bayanihan spirit in ensuring the safety of delegates,” Mayor King-Chan said.

“The City Government of Lapu-Lapu stands ready to work closely with all participating agencies as we demonstrate the Philippines’ capability to host this gathering. We are ready, we are capable, and we are one in this mission,” the mayor added. — /FPL (FREEMAN)