TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office (Region 8) has been placed on red alert in preparation for the upcoming visit of President Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte in the region.
Brigadier General Rommel Francisco Marbil said the PRO Region 8 was put on full alert on Friday (Oct. 14) up to 5 p.m. on Oct 21, 2022 for major activities lined up for this week.
“The safety of our people is our utmost priority,” said BGen. Marbil.
“We have prepared ahead to ensure that all grounds will be covered. We want all our visitors and guests not only to feel at home but also safe as they join us in the series of events this week," added BGen. Marbil.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte are expected to attend the activities in Samar and Leyte.
He said the deployment of the Philippine National Police personnel aims to ensure peace and order with the expected influx of tourists and guests in the region.
Marbil leads the Regional Task Group Eastern Visayas Shield (RTG EV SHIELD) supported by 12 Sub-Task Groups (STGs) to implement specific security requirements during the scheduled events.
A total of 540 PNP personnel from the Regional Headquarters were deployed for the Spark San Juanico: Aesthetic Light and Sound Show Lights Up Ceremony on October 19 (Wednesday).
The bridge will be temporarily closed for 15-20 minutes anytime between 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
He added that 220 personnel were also augmented for the Leyte Gulf Landings Celebration, and 100 personnel for the 75th Charter Day Celebration in Ormoc City.
Additional personnel have been tasked to conduct security coverage operations in coordination with the Presidential Security Group, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and other concerned government agencies.