Erap orders MPD to ensure safety for APEC leaders’ spouses

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada yesterday ordered the police and emergency response personnel to secure the delegates and their spouses during the Asia- Pacific Economic Cooperation ( APEC) summit next week.

Estrada placed both units on “state of readiness” to ensure safety and orderliness during the event.

He also tasked Chief Supt. Rolando Nana, Manila Police District (MPD) chief, to secure the “A Walk Through Time” tour, which is designed primarily for the spouses of delegates, in Manila’s Intramuros Park.

Presidential sisters Ballsy Aquino- Cruz, Pinky Aquino-Abelleda, Viel Aquino-Dee and Kris Aquino will host the tour, which aims to present glimpses of life in the Philippines during the Spanish period.

“The international media are already describing this APEC event as the ‘ Thrilla in Manila’ since we are bringing together world leaders, some of whom sometimes have opposing views on issues. We can say that this is one of the most historic events to be held in the country and in our city. We should make sure that everyone will be safe,” Estrada said.

Nana said the security and safety initiative is a national operation and that the MPD is a contingent to this operation through Task Group Manila headed by National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Joel Pagdilao.

“I am asking all the people in Manila to cooperate with the police and other law enforcement personnel. We must all exercise vigilance to ensure that no harm will come to our visitors. We are encouraging the people to report to us any suspicious activities in their midst,” Estrada said.

Meanwhile, Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is optimistic the APEC summit will be successful, citing the country’s infrastructure and the world- renowned Filipino hospitality.

“Our natural hospitality, friendliness and compassion, our uniquely Filipino brand of service is world class. We just have to reach into our hearts for our innate beauty as a people. Our highly respected Filipino culture, values and traditions are our assets,” Marcos said.

He added that the APEC meet is another chance for the Philippines to boost economic investments. The country first hosted APEC in 1996 during the term of Pres. Fidel Ramos.