MANILA, Nov. 15 (PNA) — Amid the terrorist attacks in France, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) assured that the security measures for the coming of some 17 leaders and three representatives for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) leaders’ summit next week is “under control.”
Foreign Affairs spokesman Charles Jose said there is nothing to worry about, and that no delegation has expressed concern about the security measures being undertaken for the leaders’ meeting.
“Of course, our security officials are monitoring and assessing the situation and we are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of all delegates in the AELM [APEC Leaders’ Meeting], especially the economic leaders,” he added.
The security agencies would have to assess the situation and beef up security measures as needed.
“Hopefully, by the time of the economic leaders meeting in Manila next week, we are sincerely hoping that situation in Paris, in particular, have turned to normal,” Jose said.
The Philippines is expecting some 17 leaders and three representatives after Russia and Indonesia confirmed the non-attendance of their presidents, Vladimir Putin and Joko Widodo, respectively.
Chinese Taipei will also send a representative in place of President Ma Ying-jeou.
Paris was rocked by explosions and gunshots Saturday morning (Manila time) that left more than 150 people dead and a score of injured bodies.
The French government has declared a national state of emergency and tightened borders to close down on the perpetrators of the attack.
These are the deadliest attacks in Europe since the 2004 Madrid bombings. (PNA)