PNP, AFP deploy 3,670 for ASEAN defense meets

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) have deployed 3,670 security and medical personnel for the 20th ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting and the 13th ADMM-Plus, scheduled on 26 to 30 October in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

The deployment includes 2,312 police personnel, 478 Bureau of Fire Protection personnel, 60 Philippine Coast Guard personnel, 341 Navy personnel, 214 Army personnel, 30 Bureau of Jail Management and Penology personnel, 155 Department of Health medical personnel and 80 personnel from the Office of Civil Defense.

The main ministerial meetings will be held on 28 and 29 October at the Mactan Expo Center, where officials will discuss regional security and collective peace.

The Philippines is chairing ASEAN in 2026. The meetings provide a forum to address regional stability, maritime security, adherence to international law and cooperation during natural disasters.

Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro told the DAILY TRIBUNE that the summit is also expected to benefit the local economy by increasing demand for accommodation and transportation for official delegations and support teams.

In addition to the 11 ASEAN member states, the ADMM-Plus will bring together representatives from the United States, China, Japan, Australia, India, South Korea, New Zealand and Russia.