Security forces will be implementing a lockdown at the venue of the inauguration of President-elect Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos on June 30.
The lockdown will start at 10 a.m. and as such, the Philippine National Police (PNP) urged the supporters of Marcos to come to the golf course fronting the National Museum to come early.
The golf course, which could accommodate 25,000 to 30,000 people will be open for Marcos supporters as early as 5 a.m., according to PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo.
"The lockdown will start at 10 a.m. before the expected arrival of the President-elect Bongbong Marcos. So for those who want to witness the event in the area, we encourage them to come early," said Fajardo.
Once the lockdown is implemented, Fajardo said no one will be allowed to come in or go out of the golf course area.
The same security protocols will be implemented at the main venue, the National Museum.
Fajardo said portable toilets will be put up at the golf course for the supporters of Marcos.
Strict screening
Based on the security protocol, there will only be two entry points at the golf course-- all of those who will attend will be subjected to strict inspection.
The PNP earlier asked those who want to go to the golf course to avoid large bags and backpacks and instead use transparent bags to expedite the screening process.
The following, according to the PNP, will be confiscated:
1. Pointed objects (cutters, blades, knives, etc.)
2. Alcoholic drinks and cigarettes
3. Chemicals
4. Fireworks and Pyrotechnics
6.Lighter, match and other combustible items
"These banned items will be confiscated at the entrance gates. The ban on these items ensures that no contraband will be brought inside the venue of the inauguration to guarantee the safety of all attendees” said Alba.
Additional appeal
On Wednesday, Police Lt. Gen. Vicente Danao, Jr. PNP officer-in-charge, urged those who plan to attend to remain calm and continue to cooperate with the police to make it peaceful and safe.
"We only want the inauguration to be held successfully, safe and orderly, with no untoward incident for the benefit of all,” said Danao.
He reminded the the attendees and participants of the inauguration to be mindful of themselves and their personal belongings while attending the event, as criminal elements might take advantage of the situation.
Here are some safety tips for the attendees:
• Refrain from bringing many valuable items to the venue (jewelry and cash).
• As much as possible do not bring your vehicle.
• Don’t leave your belongings to strangers (even if they introduce themselves as part of the working committee for the inauguration).
• Come early to the venue (at least 2 hours before the start of the event) to allow ample time for security checks. Bring valid IDs.
• When you see suspicious-looking people in the venue, report immediately to the proper authorities.
• Don’t receive any parcel or package that will be left in your custody by strangers (even if they introduce themselves as part of the working committee for the inauguration).
“We ask for the full cooperation of the guests and other attendees in the strict security check that we will make upon their arrival at the venue. We also appeal for them to come at least two hours before the scheduled time of the inauguration ceremony, as the security check may take a few minutes”, Danao said.