Koko gives kudos to PNP for ASEAN Summit security

Senate President Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III on Saturday lauded the Philippine National Police (PNP) for its security operations for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit held this month in Manila.

The summit, held from November 13 to 15, involved 19,000 police officers and noncommissioned officers drawn from Metro Manila and other regions.

"The PNP did a great job in securing the delegates to the summit. Our guests experienced Filipino hospitality at its finest, thanks in no small part to the safety afforded by our dedicated policeman and policewomen", said Pimentel.

Pimentel also expressed his appreciation for the hardships that police officers deployed from the regions had to go through.

The Senate President said, "It is not a joke to still do your job after being billeted in makeshift quarters that have few creature comforts. The fact that you still did very well shows your competence and dedication to your duty."

Pimentel also commended the leadership of the PNP for its achievement.

He said, "The leadership of the PNP deserves recognition for the preparation, planning, and excellent implementation of security arrangements. This summit can serve as a good template for similar events in the future."

Pimentel also had a message for his countrymen in the conclusion of the summit.

He said, "We sacrificed a lot for the success of the ASEAN summit. We had to contend with traffic, disruptions in our business schedules, and deal with the inconveniences brought about by security preparations. Thank you for your patience. The success of this summit was made possible by your cooperation."