Over 2,300 cops dispatched for ASEAN execs’ meeting

CEBU, Philippines — The Police Regional Office (PRO)-7 will deploy more than 2,300 police personnel as part of nearly 4,000 security forces to ensure the safety of delegates and the orderly conduct of the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) 2026.

The deployment was announced during a send-off ceremony held at the Mactan Shrine in Barangay Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City on October 23.

The ASEAN activities are scheduled from October 26 to 30, while the security deployment will continue until the first week of November during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, locally known as Kalag-Kalag.

The contingent consists of 2,312 personnel 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, 214 from the Philippine Army, 30 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).

According to PRO-7, security personnel will be assigned to routes used by delegates, their billeting areas, and meeting venues to prevent possible threats and ensure the orderly conduct of the activities.

Personnel will also be deployed to cemeteries, memorial parks, transport terminals, and other key areas expected to draw large crowds during Kalag-Kalag.

The send-off ceremony was attended by Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia King-Chan, Police Lieutenant General Neri Vincent D. Ignacio, officer-in-charge of the Office of the Deputy Chief for Operations, and officials from the Department of National Defense, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), BFP, Philippine Navy, PCG, and Philippine Air Force.

King-Chan said the city was ready to work with participating agencies to ensure the safety of delegates and the public.

She stressed the importance of coordination among police, military personnel, emergency responders, and government agencies in carrying out the security operation.

Meanwhile, Ignacio said the success of the mission would depend not only on the number of personnel and equipment available but also on teamwork and discipline.

He reminded deployed personnel to remain alert, follow operational procedures, maintain clear communication, and respond promptly to security concerns.

He also stressed the responsibility of commanders and team leaders in guiding their personnel.

PRO-7 said the PNP, military, local government units, and other partner agencies would work together to prevent threats, respond to possible emergencies, and maintain peace and order throughout the ASEAN activities and Kalag-Kalag. (CEBU NEWS)