Palace assures security during Papal visit

MANILA, Jan. 10 (PNA) -- Defense and police officials on Saturday said they are all ready for all possible security contingencies for Pope Francis' visit on Jan. 15 to 19.This was in response to questions on whether security forces have rethink their strategies in wake of the series of terrorist attacks in France which claimed the lives of around 20 people early this week. We have prepared for all scenarios with all resources we have. All government security agencies are in close coordination to ensure that our mga 'kapatid' (brothers and sisters) attending and observing this event concentrate and fully experience the spiritual encounter of the Pope's pastoral visit to the Filipino flock, Defense spokesperson Dr. Peter Paul Galvez said.Philippine National Police spokesperson Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor said, All possible situations are being considered and appropriate contingency responses are studied for implementation if necessary. About 37,000 police officers and soldiers, including reservists were ordered mobilized to secure the Pontiff in his five-day visit.Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said that they were still to detect any security threats for the papal visit and added that having a France-like incident happening in the country is very remote. The circumstances surrounding the incident in France is very remote. We do not see any reason why it should be linked to the visit of (a) Man of Faith, Peace, Justice and Equality, he said. (PNA)RMA/PFN/SSC