Security in place for Obama as police hope for ‘peaceful’ visit

Protesters display placards during a rally at U.S. Embassy against next week’s visit of U.S. President Barack Obama Wednesday, April 23, 2014 in Manila, Philippines. Philippine police armed with truncheon, shields and water hose clashed with more than 100 left-wing activists who rallied at the embassy to oppose a visit by Obama and a looming pact that will increase the American military presence in the Philippines. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez)

MANILA, Philippines — Security measures are in place for the visit of US President Barack Obama to the Philippines next week, a spokesman for the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

Senior Superintendent Wilben Mayor, said in a Thursday briefing that the civil disturbance management of the PNP was now on alert to ensure the safety of the US delegation headed by Obama.

Mayor said the PNP has also alerted the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) as militant groups were threatening to hold mass actions.

He assured that they have coordinated with the Presidential Security Group and the NCRPO, tasked to implement security measures in Metro Manila.

“We already have an inter-agency meeting,” he said.

According to him, police authorities have not received any threat.

“We have not received any threat and we hope his visit will be peaceful” he said in mix Filipino and English.

Mayor, however, declined to detail other security measures made.

On Thursday, Malacanang  assured they would provide necessary security for Obama.

President Benigno Aquino III and Obama will be talking about defense and security cooperation as well as trade matters between the two allied countries.

The Philippines is one of several countries in Asia, which Obama visited after Japan, Malaysia, and South Korea.

The visit highlights the commitment of the US in the Asia-Pacific region.

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