MANILA, Philippines — ASEAN Summit security preparations are intensifying as the Philippines mobilizes 23,154 personnel to protect visiting heads of state, foreign delegates and other participants attending the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Metro Manila. The large-scale deployment brings together police, military personnel and emergency response agencies ahead of the regional gathering.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla delivered the message during a send-off ceremony at Quirino Grandstand in Manila on November 11. He urged personnel to demonstrate Filipino values of care and hospitality while carrying out their duties, saying the security teams would represent the country before international guests.

Reports said the deployment would involve 23,154 personnel, including 20,079 based in the National Capital Region and another 3,075 assigned through a multi-agency arrangement. Participating agencies include the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.

Security preparations cover summit venues, hotels, billeting facilities and motorcade routes across Metro Manila. Police officials have also cited intelligence monitoring and coordination with private security agencies and property administrators.

Authorities are preparing vehicles, motorcycles, ambulances and crowd-management equipment to support security and emergency response operations. The deployment reflects the logistical demands of hosting regional leaders and accompanying officials.

The Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City is among the key venues for summit activities. Public arrangements are also being made to manage traffic and reduce disruption. Malacañang has declared November 16 to 18 special non-working days in Metro Manila in connection with the summit.

Residents and commuters are advised to monitor announcements from the PNP, local governments and transport authorities for updates on road closures, traffic rerouting and security restrictions.

The government’s challenge will be to maintain public safety while ensuring visitors experience the country’s hospitality. Remulla’s appeal places that responsibility on every member of the security contingent.