Lapu-Lapu City has formally declared its readiness to host delegates and dignitaries for the ASEAN Summit 2026, scheduled on May 26–28, 2026, following a send-off ceremony for the Task Group Central Visayas held at the historic Liberty Shrine.
The ceremony was led by Cindi King-Chan, who reaffirmed the city government’s full support for national security operations and preparations for the high-level regional gathering. It was also attended by PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., who provided strategic guidance and formally sent off the deployed security forces.
Authorities underscored that the activation of Task Group Central Visayas represents a critical step in ensuring the safety, order, and seamless conduct of the summit. With leaders from Southeast Asian nations expected to converge in Central Visayas, heightened security and inter-agency coordination remain top priorities.
The comprehensive security framework is being carried out under the Committee on Security, Peace and Order, and Emergency Preparedness and Response (CSPOEPR), in collaboration with key agencies including the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection Region 7 (BFP-7), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Office of Civil Defense Region 7 (OCD-7), Department of Health Region 7 (DOH-7), National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), Department of Tourism (DOT), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG-7), along with local government units.
Local support units such as the City Traffic Management System and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) are also fully mobilized to ensure efficient traffic flow, emergency response readiness, and public safety throughout the duration of the summit.
Officials emphasized that the strong collaboration between national agencies and the local government highlights the Philippines’ capability to host major international events with professionalism and efficiency. More importantly, it reflects a unified commitment to uphold peace, security, and hospitality as the country welcomes ASEAN leaders and delegates in May 2026.
Photo by Christian Paul Aleser, PBB Photographer
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