PNP forms task force to supervise security of PH hosting of FIBA 2023
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has created a special task force that will supervise the safety measures of all attendees, participants, and venues of the highly-anticipated 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup (FBWC).
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda, Jr. said he has designated Police Lieutenant General Michael John F. Dubria as the commander of the Security Task Force (STF) which will implement a comprehensive security plan to safeguard the well-being of all spectators, athletes, and officials involved in the international sporting event.
The FBWC 2023 is expected to attract thousands of local and international visitors, athletes, officials, and fans.
Acorda said the PNP is committed to providing a secure environment throughout the duration of the event, and the STF has been rigidly trained and prepared to handle any security challenges that may emerge.
"We are fully committed to ensuring the safety and security of all participants, spectators, and venues during the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup. Our Security Task Force is well-prepared and equipped to handle any challenges that may arise,” said Acorda.
“This event is not only a showcase of world-class basketball but also a testament to our ability to host international gatherings securely. We call upon the cooperation and support of the public, as well as the collaboration of our partner agencies, in making this event a success. Let us come together as one and celebrate both the sport and the spirit of unity. Let us all stay safe and vigilant”, he added.
The FBWC is scheduled to take place from August 17 to September 11, 2023, in several venues including the Philippine Arena in Bulacan, Smart Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City, and the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Structure
The Security Task Force is structured as follows:
• Command Group and Staff: Police Lieutenant General Michael John F. Dubria will serve as the Overall Supervisor of the STF, ensuring effective coordination and execution of security measures, while Police Brigadier General Redrico A Maranan, Chief, Public Information Office will serve as the Spokesperson.
• STF Red Team: Police Colonel Jude T. Tacorda will lead the STF Red Team, a specialized unit responsible for handling critical security situations and emergency responses.
• STF Secretariat: Police Colonel Crisaleo R. Tolentino has been appointed as the Head of the STF Secretariat, which will manage administrative and logistical matters essential to the successful execution of the event's security plan.!
• Directorate for Operations Support Staff: Police Lieutenant Colonel Bernard E Pagaduan will lead the Support Staff, specifically handling financial matters and logistical support to ensure the seamless execution of security operations.
• Multi-Agency Coordination Center (MACC): Police Brigadier General Ronnie Francis M Cariaga will take charge of the MACC, a collaborative effort involving multiple government agencies to ensure efficient communication, coordination, and rapid response to any situation that may arise.