Extensive safety and coordination measures have been implemented in Cebu as Southeast Asia’s defense officials prepare to gather for the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) 2026 scheduled from October 28 to 31.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., instructed the Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO-7) and other involved units to maintain heightened security readiness and step up intelligence monitoring throughout the multinational summit.
“The absence of identified threats does not lessen our responsibility to remain vigilant. The PNP is fully prepared to secure ADMM 2026 through proactive security measures, close coordination with partner agencies, and the strategic deployment of our personnel,” PGEN Nartatez said.
The ADMM serves as ASEAN’s highest defense consultative and cooperative mechanism, bringing together defense leaders from member-states to discuss regional security concerns, defense cooperation, and emerging challenges affecting the region.
A total of 3,670 personnel from various government agencies have been mobilized to handle security and emergency operations for the high-level meeting. Police deployment will remain active until Nov. 1 to ensure the safety of delegates until their departure.
Security coverage spans the primary conference venue, billeting accommodations, convoy transit routes, and key sites across Cebu City where delegates are expected to visit.
PGEN Nartatez ordered concerned units to immediately validate and act on any credible threat information while maintaining close coordination with partner agencies involved in the security effort.
The directive aligns with instructions from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., under the guidance of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to uphold the nation’s reputation as a reliable and capable host within the regional community.
PRO-7 raised its status from normal alert to heightened alert despite the absence of monitored threats. To support the overall security plan, the PNP is also executing advanced security inspections, coordinated traffic management measures, strategic personnel deployment, and contingency planning for delegate movements.
“We assure all ASEAN delegates and the Filipino people that the PNP will uphold the highest standards of security and professionalism throughout ADMM 2026. Our commitment is to provide a safe, peaceful, and orderly environment that reflects the hospitality and readiness of the Philippines as host,” PGEN Nartatez also said.