The ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Site Task Group (STG) Iloilo on Friday, Feb. 20, officially deployed 1,707 personnel to ensure a successful and safe 49th Meeting of the High-Level Task Force on ASEAN Economic Integration to be hosted by this highly urbanized city next week.
In his message during the deployment ceremony, ASEAN STG Iloilo commander and Police Regional Office (PRO-6)Director, Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan, said the occasion recognizes the weight and honor of the responsibility the security forces are about to carry.
“You stand at the front line of our nation’s commitment, not only to regional cooperation, but to international stability and progress. This is more than a deployment – it is a mission that reflects our country’s professionalism and credibility on the global stage,” he said.
He said their vigilance and dedication will create a secure environment where delegates can focus on meaningful dialogue on policies and economic strategies.
The security forces consisted of 1,547 police personnel and 160 from the Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Bureau of Fire Protection.
Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, in her message delivered by Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna, said that while the city is on full alert for the upcoming Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival, they are also intensifying readiness for the ASEAN-related meetings that Iloilo City will proudly host.
“Over the past few months, we have been preparing thoroughly – from planning to coordinating, conducting meetings, and fine-tuning our systems. Because of all that hard work, I can honestly say I am confident in our readiness. I know that Iloilo City is in capable hands,” she said.
She said Iloilo City is not just hosting as a local government, but is representing the Philippines on the international stage.
“We are known as an emerging Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions or MICE destination, and the way we ensure safety and order will speak volumes about who we are as a city and as a country,” the city mayor said.
In a previous interview, Iloilo City Police Office officer-in-charge Col. Wilbert Parilla said they are expecting delegates to start arriving on Saturday and Sunday.PNA
