Expect tight security on Sat’s thanksgiving party – organizer

CEBU CITY—Cebuanos attending the thanksgiving party for President-elect Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday are advised not to bring big backpacks and buy bottled water outside the venue.

The advisory was issued by the organizers of the “One Love, One Nation” on the Sugbo grounds at the South Road Properties in Cebu City.

Doris Mongaya said those attending the free concert should expect to be frisked by members of the President Security Group (PSG).

She advised Duterte’s supporters not to bring big backpacks to the venue due to security concerns since these were large enough to contain sharp objects and even firearms or bombs.

“They can bring those small ones (backpacks),” she added. “The bigger the bag, the longer it takes to check the items inside.”

Mongaya said umbrellas would be allowed in the venue since it might rain.

Supporters were also advised not to bring bottled water from outside the venue since there were vendors accredited by PSG inside Sugbo grounds.

No placards and banners were also allowed because these would affect the line of sight of the PSG personnel while securing Duterte. Drones would be barred from flying over the venue to take photos.

“Please don’t bring the items not allowed so as not to slow down the security check at the entrance of the venue,” said Mongaya.

She added supporters of the incoming President can go to the venue as early as 2 p.m. on Saturday, two hours before the start of the concert that would be showcased by at least 20 performers.

The concert was expected to end at 10 p.m.