PNP ready to secure heads of state, other ASEAN delegates in November — Palace

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is ready to secure the country’s hosting of the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Meetings in November, with security preparations underway to ensure the safety of participating leaders, delegates, guests, and the public, Malacañang said on Wednesday.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the PNP is coordinating with concerned government agencies, local government units, and other security partners for the deployment of personnel and security coverage during the regional gathering.

“The Philippine National Police is ready to secure the 49th ASEAN Summit this November 2026,” the PNP said in a statement read by Castro during a Palace briefing.

“We are committed to ensure the safety of participating heads of states, delegates, guests and the public, and maintain peace and order throughout the event,” it added.

Castro said the security preparations are ongoing, with authorities working to ensure readiness to respond to any situation during the summit.

The Palace statement came amid reports that some protesters were considering demonstrations during the ASEAN Summit over issues including United States President Donald Trump’s possible attendance and the proposed Pax Silica initiative.

The PNP said it is taking the responsibility seriously and will remain “alert, professional and ready” to help ensure the safe, peaceful and orderly conduct of the summit.

Malacañang has declared Nov. 16-18 as special non-working days in Metro Manila in line with the country’s hosting of the regional meetings.

In anticipation of demonstrations, Castro reiterated President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for Filipinos to welcome the foreign delegates while respecting the constitutional right to peaceful expression.

She said those who wish to raise grievances may continue to do so, but appealed to them to hold demonstrations on another day rather than during the regional gathering.