The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has assigned over 400 personnel to ensure the security of Vice President Sara Duterte, according to AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla.
Security Arrangements:
- Personnel Deployment: “Around 400 plus” AFP personnel are dedicated to Vice President Duterte’s security.
- Command Structure: The Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSG) is now under the Presidential Security Command (PSC), with deployment decisions made by Security Task Action Group (STAG) commanders based on specific requirements and levels of engagement.
Security Details:
- Roles: The 400 personnel provide various security services, including area security and close-in protection.
- Flexibility: The AFP can augment security for larger events if necessary.
Despite the Philippine National Police (PNP) pulling out 75 of its officers from Duterte’s security detail, Padilla assured that the remaining AFP personnel are sufficient. The AFP can provide additional support if required, especially for large engagements like rallies.
Background:
- Current Security Detail: Vice President Duterte retains 31 PNP officers and 358 AFP personnel for her security.
- PNP’s Stand: PNP Chief Police General Rommel Marbil mentioned that there are no identified threats against Duterte and denied any political pressure influencing the reduction of her security detail.
Vice President’s Response:
Duterte described the reduction of her security personnel as political harassment, highlighting that many of the removed officers were trusted members of her and former President Rodrigo Duterte’s security teams.
“Let us spare our people from all the lies. Let us call it what it is — a clear case of political harassment,” Duterte stated, pointing out that the move appeared targeted and deliberate.