The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is all set to beef up its security for the country’s hosting of the 30th Southeast Asian Games from 30 November to 11 December.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said the military will be on heightened alert and ready for any eventuality when the country opens its doors for more than 10,000 athletes, coaches, team officials and spectators from 10 other Southeast Asian countries.

“We do not see the likelihood of any terror attack, but it’s better to be ready, right? We are implementing precautionary measures,” Lorenzana said during the send-off rites for military athletes yesterday at the Camp Aguinaldo.

Lorenzana spearheaded the ceremony together with around 400 soldier-athletes, coaches and personnel from the security and emergency preparedness participating in the biggest, most prestigious sport conclave in the region.

The Philippine Arena in Bulacan will host the opening ceremonies while the main hub will be at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac. Games would also be held in various venues in Metro Manila, Tagaytay, Batangas, Pampanga and Subic in Zambales.

The AFP will be providing reinforcement to the 20,000 policemen that the Philippine National Police will deploy not just to the competition venues, but also in strategic locations like billeting areas, restaurants, media centers and training sites.

“We still need an augmentation because it’s better to have a surplus of security forces,” Lorenzana said.

“We will see to it that only authorized personnel will be allowed at the venues and spectators who will come to watch the games will be frisked.”