The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has started the deployment of more than 2,200 policemen in different vicinities and areas in Metro Manila where the games for the 2023 International Basketball Federation (FIBA) World Cup 2023 will be held.
NCRPO director Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said security is now in place at the duration of the most anticipated international basketball event from Aug. 25, the scheduled opening, to Sept. 10.
"As the host in providing the safety and security for the participants of FIBA, NCRPO ensure that we are prepared to cater the needs of all the athletes, delegates, and all other foreign guests throughout the event and during their stay in our country,” said Nartatez.
“Together with other government agencies and stakeholders, we will be able to bring another success to our planning and management of security measures that would be implemented for future local and international major events in our country,” he added.
The three main venues are the Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City; The Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City; and, the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.
Last week, the Philippine National Police (PNP) created a dedicated Security Task Force (STF) to ensure the safety and security of all attendees, participants, and venues for the FIBA World Cup. It is led by Police Lieutenant General Michael John F. Dubria.
Nartatez said the NCRPO will take charge of the Site Task Group (STG) Metro Manila FBWC 2023 which was organized to serve as the primary body in charge of security operations and other public-related safety service during the games.
“The NCRPO will deploy a total of 2,225 police officers in different vicinities and areas of responsibility to ensure the security and protection of all the international and famous basketball athletes that will participate in the said world cup. Likewise, guarantee that there will be untoward incident during the FIBA event,” said Nartatez.
“In addition, coordinating meetings with Philippine Sports Commission, Local Government Units, other stakeholders, and government agencies have been conducted to organize a collaborated security preparation in maintaining peace and order as one of the host country,” he added.
Players and basketball officials from various parts of the world have started arriving in the country for the event, which will start with the opening ceremony at the Philippine Arena on Aug. 25.