Rama to ask Comelec for retention of police bodyguards

CITING threats on his life, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama is asking the Commission on Election to allow him to have police escorts during the election period.

Having security escorts he said is necessary for him function fully as mayor of the city.

“I have lots of concerns now because of politics. My political opponents will look for ways to eradicate me,” he said without elaborating on the source of the threats.

Rama said that having a security detail is not only necessary when there is a direct threat against an elected official.

He said that a security escort is needed especially since he moves around a lot and would meet different kinds of people.

Two civilian clothed policemen are assigned to provide round-the-clock security to the mayor.

Policemen detailed as security escorts of politicians will be recalled ones the election season official starts on Jan. 13, 2013.