Key AFP units in ‘blue alert’ for Obama visit
Key units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are placed in "blue alert" in time with the two-day visit of US President Barack Obama which starts today.
AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala yesterday said in the Philippine News Agency online that these units include General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo and the respective headquarters of the Army, Navy and Air Force.
Under the "blue alert" status, the military can easily mobilize 50 percent of its strength should the need arises, the PNA online report said.
However, the AFP's Joint Task Force-NCR is placed on "red alert" status.
This unit is the one that will support the Philippine National Police in law enforcement missions and will be on stand-by to support the Presidential Security Group, which is the lead agency in securing Obama's visit.
"Red alert" means all available Joint Task Force officers and men must report immediately to their respective places of assignment.
"PSG is lead agency regarding security of President Obama in coordination with the US Secret Service," Zagala stressed.
The PNA online report said the US Secret Service contingent has been in the Philippines since April 21.
AFP public affairs office chief said that these units will work together in all security concerns during the presidential visit of Obama.
"AFP and the PNP will be in support together with the Department of Transportation and Communications and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority. Other government agencies will also support security requirements when tasked," Zagala said.
"The AFP through the PSG will ensure the protection of President Obama and is confident in the vast experience and capabilities of the PSG in VIP protection," he stressed.