The Philippine National Police (PNP) is set to enforce strict security measures during the official visit of Indonesian President Joko Widodo to the country. This visit coincides with the traditional Traslacion of the Black Nazarene, a religious event that draws millions of devotees. The PNP, along with the Presidential Security Group (PSG), will work together to ensure the safety and security of both events.
According to PNP spokesman Col. Jean Fajardo, the PSG will take the lead in providing security for President Widodo. She explained that the PNP has a security template in place for foreign dignitaries, with the PSG being the lead unit for state visits. However, the PNP will also provide additional personnel to augment the PSG’s efforts, particularly in securing the engagement areas.
The visit of President Widodo coincides with the Traslacion, an annual procession of the Black Nazarene image from Quirino Grandstand to the Quiapo Church. The PNP had previously announced that 15,000-strong police forces will be deployed for the Feast of the Black Nazarene, highlighting the massive turnout of devotees. It is expected that around 2 million devotees will participate in this religious activity, mainly concentrated in Manila’s Quiapo district.
Fajardo assured the public that the PNP has enough personnel to handle the security requirements of both events. She emphasized that the PNP has previous experience in managing the security of major back-to-back events of this magnitude.
President Widodo, who is in his final term as the leader of the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation, is expected to meet with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his visit. The two leaders will discuss the progress of Philippine-Indonesia relations, reaffirming their commitment to deepening and expanding ties between the two countries. This meeting holds significance as the Philippines and Indonesia will celebrate their 75th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations in November 2024, marking a milestone in their bilateral partnership.
The visit of President Widodo to the Philippines and the simultaneous Traslacion of the Black Nazarene pose unique challenges in terms of security. However, the PNP, together with the PSG, is prepared to ensure the safety of all participants and attendees. The coordination and cooperation between these security forces will be crucial in maintaining order and safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved.
As the international community closely watches this visit, the Philippines aims to showcase its commitment to hosting foreign dignitaries and organizing major events with utmost professionalism and security. The successful execution of these twin events will not only strengthen the bond between the Philippines and Indonesia but also demonstrate the country’s ability to handle complex security operations.
In conclusion, the Philippine National Police, in collaboration with the Presidential Security Group, is leaving no stone unturned in implementing strict security measures for the visit of Indonesian President Joko Widodo and the Traslacion of the Black Nazarene. With their experience and expertise, they are well-equipped to handle the challenges posed by these simultaneous events. The Philippines looks forward to a successful and safe visit, strengthening the ties between the two nations and ensuring a peaceful and orderly religious procession.
Source: The Manila Times
