A ceremonial send-off for security forces and resources bound for the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits was held on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila, with Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. among those in attendance, the PNP Public Information Office (PNP-PIO) reported.
High-Ranking Officials Gather at Rizal Park Ceremony
Interior and Local Government Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla attended the event, according to a Facebook post by the PNP-PIO dated November 11, 2026. Undersecretary Nestor B. Sanares, who holds the dual role of Undersecretary for Peace and Order and Chairperson of the Committee on Security, Protocol, and Other Events-Related Preparations and Requirements (CSPOEPR), was likewise present.
The PNP-PIO also identified Ambassador Ma. Hellen B. De La Vega, Director-General for Operations of the ASEAN National Organizing Council (ASEAN NOC), as an attendee. Police Lieutenant General Neri Vincent D. Ignacio, Commander of the ASEAN Security Task Force 2026, and Police Brigadier General Christopher N. Abrahano, Commander of Task Group Metro Manila, also took part in the ceremony.
Deployment of Personnel and Equipment Formalised
The send-off marked the formal, coordinated deployment of personnel, equipment, and operational resources from participating agencies, the PNP-PIO said. The office described the event as a demonstration of the government's unified commitment to ensuring the safe, secure, and orderly conduct of the upcoming regional summit and its associated engagements.
According to the PNP-PIO, the PNP reaffirmed its readiness to fulfil its security mandate through inter-agency coordination, intelligence-driven operations, and a unified public safety approach. The office noted these measures are aligned with the PNP Focused Agenda.
Multiple Agencies Involved in Whole-of-Government Security Effort
The PNP-PIO said the ceremony reflected the Philippines' commitment to providing a secure environment for ASEAN leaders, delegates, and visitors as the country hosts the regional gathering.
Source: PNP Public Information Office