07/05/2026
PRO7 FULLY MISSION-READY FOR ASEAN SUMMIT 2026; OVER 7,300 SECURITY FORCES DEPLOYED TO SAFEGUARD REGIONAL COOPERATION AND ECONOMIC PROGRESS
LAPU-LAPU CITY — Demonstrating unwavering readiness to secure one of the region’s most significant diplomatic gatherings, the Police Regional Office 7 (PRO7), under the leadership of the Philippine National Police, formally deployed over 7,300 security and medical personnel during a send-off ceremony held at the Mactan Shrine on May 2, 2026.
The ceremony was led by PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief, Philippine National Police, together with members of the Directorial Staff, signaling the full operationalization of a unified, multi-agency security command for the 48th ASEAN Leaders’ Summit.
This large-scale deployment underscores the Philippines’ firm commitment not only to ensuring the safety of ASEAN leaders and delegates, but more importantly, to protecting the environment for meaningful dialogue, stronger regional cooperation, and sustained economic growth.
Personnel from PRO7, the Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Health, Lapu-Lapu City Traffic Office, Presidential Security Command, and force multipliers have been strategically positioned under a comprehensive and integrated security framework. This covers venue protection, route and convoy security, maritime and airspace surveillance, traffic management, emergency medical response, and rapid incident deployment.
Complementing its manpower strength, PRO7 has mobilized 2,850 operational assets, including mobile patrol units, communications equipment, motorcycles, drones, watercraft, fire trucks, ambulances, and other critical resources—ensuring full-spectrum readiness under any operational condition.
The ceremony was attended by key leaders from national and regional agencies, highlighting a whole-of-government approach in securing the summit—an approach that reflects the very spirit of ASEAN: unity, cooperation, and shared progress.
Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Ma. Cynthia K. Chan reaffirmed the city’s full support, emphasizing seamless coordination between local and national government units as essential to delivering a safe and successful summit.
“As you take on your posts, carry the spirit of service and excellence. Your dedication will ensure a peaceful, organized, and historic summit—one that strengthens our nation’s role in advancing regional cooperation,” Mayor Chan said.
PNP Chief PGEN Nartatez assured the public and stakeholders that preparations have been deliberate, strategic, and exhaustive.
“This is not a hasty preparation. We have been building this operation since last year—refining templates from past national and international events. With solid planning comes operational success,” he emphasized.
He also expressed full confidence in PBGen Arnold E. Abad, Sub Task Group Commander for Venues, citing his operational expertise and proven leadership in managing complex security environments.
As the Philippines takes center stage in hosting the ASEAN Summit, PRO7 stands firm in its mission: to provide a secure foundation where diplomacy thrives, partnerships deepen, and economic opportunities expand for the region and for Cebu.
Anchored on the guiding principle, “Bagong PNP Para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman,” the Philippine National Police reaffirms its commitment to delivering responsive, reliable, and people-centered public service in support of national development and regional stability.