Metro Manila, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the opening ceremony of the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Manila on Sunday, Nov. 15, was “generally peaceful.”
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. lauded the efforts of law enforcers and partner agencies, noting the careful preparation, teamwork and cooperation in the security operations that resulted in the peaceful opening.
“Maayos at generally peaceful ang naging pagbubukas ng ASEAN Summit, at nagpapasalamat tayo sa lahat ng personnel at partner agencies na nagtutulungan para maging maayos ang ating security operations. Pero tuloy-tuloy ang ating trabaho,” Nartatez said.
[Translation: The opening of the ASEAN Summit was orderly and generally peaceful, and we are thankful to all personnel and partner agencies that continuously coordinate to ensure our organized security operations. However, our work continues.]
He added that authorities will remain on full alert ahead of the remaining summit activities scheduled from Nov. 16 to 18.
He likewise directed concerned police units to maintain visibility and coordination, and remain responsive to any security concerns throughout the rest of the international gathering.
Nartatez also reminded police officers to perform their duties “with professionalism, discipline, courtesy, and respect for the public.”
The PNP said units in the National Capital Region (NCR), Region 3 and Region 4A, as well as all Camp Crame-based units, are under full alert status to support the summit’s security requirements.
