Cebu City is enhancing security measures in anticipation of the ASEAN Summit 2026, taking place in nearby Lapu-Lapu City. Authorities have deployed more security and emergency personnel at key locations throughout the city.
Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak, who heads the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, emphasized the preparations to manage any potential emergencies or delegate spillovers from the summit.
24/7 Emergency Response Teams Activated
Since May 2, 24/7 response teams have been stationed across the city as part of a comprehensive security strategy. Tumulak noted that this setup enables quick responses to any incidents or emergencies involving summit delegates.
“We can respond quickly in case there’s a spillover of delegates or if delegate members enter Cebu City,” said Tumulak.
Dave Tumulak
A major staging area has been established at the Cebu City Quarantine Center, near the Mandaue City border, equipped with police, ambulances, and rescue units ready for deployment.
Coordination with Nearby Municipalities
In addition to the local security measures, surrounding municipalities have also mobilized resources, including firetrucks, to aid in emergency responses.
“Municipalities have sent their own firetrucks to assist in case of fire incidents,” Tumulak added.
Dave Tumulak
K9 units have been deployed as part of the security operations to enhance threat detection capabilities.
Dedicated Teams for ASEAN Security
To ensure regular police duties are not disrupted, dedicated response teams have been formed and organized by sectors throughout the city.
Staging areas have been set up in various locations, including the South Road Properties and near the Cebu City Quarantine Center, with personnel from the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Armed Forces assigned to secure key entry points and city boundaries.
“We will secure our shorelines and boundaries to ensure the safety of the ASEAN Summit,” Tumulak stated.
Dave Tumulak
Increased police visibility, stricter traffic enforcement, and the presence of barangay responders are expected in the lead-up to and during the summit.
Tumulak reassured the public about the safety measures in place, stating, “Cebu City is very safe during the ASEAN Summit.”