Police placed on full alert for SEA Games

The entire Metro police force has been placed on full alert while four other regions are on heightened alert ahead the opening of the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games on Nov. 27.

While alert levels have been raised, the Philippine National Police (PNP) maintained that there has been no specific terror threat to the various sporting events in the capital and other cities.

National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Vidal Querol said the security measures are aimed at thwarting possible attacks by the New People’s Army (NPA) following series of encounters between rebels and soldiers in the countryside.

PNP chief Director General Arturo Lomibao has been leading inspections on security readiness in Metro Manila venues as well as those in Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Western and Central Visayas Regions.

Lomibao said that while there has been no specific terror threat, the PNP is taking no chances when it comes to securing an international event like the Games, which will be held from Nov. 27 to Dec. 5.

Sources said intelligence operatives have been deployed to strategic areas, which police officials consider spots vulnerable to terror attack.

They refused to elaborate on the vulnerable spots.

"This is an international event and we cannot afford to allow terrorists to carry out criminal activities. We want to make sure that we are one step ahead of the terrorists," a veteran intelligence officer said.

Lomibao directed Deputy Director General Avelino Razon Jr., overall commander of the Task Force SEAG and Director Rodolfo Tor, head of the security committee of the Philippine Sports Commission, to ensure the peaceful and orderly staging of the Games.

Central Luzon regional director Chief Superintendent Alejandro Lapinid said security plans cover the arrival and billeting of athletes, events’ venues, routes, social activities and other areas of concern.

Overt and covert security service will be provided mainly by the PNP with augmentation from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and force multipliers.

Calabarzon will be hosting aquatics events in Los Baños, Laguna, men’s golf at the Canlubang Country Club and chess at the Tagaytay City Convention Center.

Razon reminded sub task force groups to likewise conduct proactive operations against thieves, holduppers and pickpockets.