Security preparations underway for Obama visit

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - The National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) has started to liaise with its American counterpart for the upcoming visit of US President Barack Obama to the country next month, a security official said today.

The official speaking on condition of anonymity revealed that the NICA has conducted initial "environmental scanning" and found no threats against Obama.

The NICA includes the intelligence arm of the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the National Bureau of Investigation.

Obama is expected to meet with Philippine President Benigno Aquino III next month to discuss ways to expand security and economic ties between the two allies.