Private security team arranged for Duterte

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE

DAVAO CITY—Who will secure the country’s next President?

Although Rodrigo Duterte’s future as the next President has already been conceded by his rivals, he still cannot avail of the services of the Presidential Security Group (PSG).

This has prompted his camp to organize a “PSG-like” security team for Duterte.

“We have to beef up his security because he is the next President,” Peter Laviña, Duterte’s campaign spokesperson, told the Inquirer Tuesday morning.

The move comes amid rumors, which Sen. Bongbong Marcos earlier claimed was the ruling party’s possible “Plan B,” to wrest the presidency from Duterte and fill the vacancy with Liberal Party (LP) vice presidential candidate Leni Robredo, if she wins.  The LP has denied any such plan but other rumors continue to swirl in social media that some disgruntled military men may try to stage a coup or assassinate Duterte, whom they accuse of having communist links.

Laviña said the additional security men for Duterte will be privately-funded.

“We have to shoulder the expenses until he assumes office,” Laviña said.

On Monday night, police blocked the street fronting the hotel where Duterte held a press conference after he cast his votes. It was the first time a security measure of this kind was conducted for the mayor.

“He may be safe because he is in Davao, but what about in other areas?” Laviña asked.

Aside from beefing up Duterte’s security, his camp also have other plans for the incoming administration.

Laviña said they have initially set up a “transition team, policy group, selection committee and inauguration committee” in preparation for the Duterte presidency.

The transition team, Laviña said, will be coordinating with the outgoing Aquino administration for a “smooth turnover” of government.

“The policy group will help in identifying issues—like traffic, issues with China—that need to be addressed within the first 100 days of the Duterte administration,” Laviña said.

The selection committee, on the other hand, will be in charge of identifying, vetting and recommending those who will be Cabinet members of the Duterte government.

Duterte earlier told his running mate, Sen. Allan Peter Cayetano, to choose between the foreign affairs and justice secretary post. He also hinted he wanted former Press Secretary Jesus Dureza to be his presidential assistant on the peace process.

Laviña said they “also have to prepare for the inauguration.” Nico Alconaba, Inquirer Mindanao

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