47 guards qualify as security detail

CEBU, Philippines - Forty-seven security guards successfully completed a 10-day training with the Police Regional Office 7, which allows them to serve as Temporary Security Detail to “Very Important Persons.”

Regional Police Director Chief Supt. Lani-O Nerez said the 47 security guards will be deployed as details to individuals who need their services, if no PNP personnel can be available to secure VIPs. 

Nerez said that these guards, who were recommended by different agencies in the Central Visayas, underwent the same training undertaken by the police security details.

He said the guards, now called protective agents, will be deployed as security details to politicians running for Mayor and above, as well as to private individuals.

Unlike police security details whose services are free, Nerez said the security guards will be paid and, unlike the police, can work for the VIP anytime their services are needed.

The respective agencies supervising the security guards and the VIP getting their services will be the ones to negotiate on their income, but the application to avail of their services would have to go through the PNP and the Commission on Elections.

The PRO-7 Director disclosed that out of 52 applicants, only 34 individuals have been granted with TSDs with two policemen for each VIP. So far, 68 policemen have been deployed as TSDs.

Nerez said applicants for security detail started pouring in since the start of the Comelec gun ban last January 10. The gun ban is being implemented for the duration of the election period by recalling the firearms permits of government security forces, as well as private individuals acting as bodyguards to politicians.

Comelec officials said no civilian can get the exemption, only security guards, law enforcement agencies, PNP and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Those affected by the revocation can reapply for a security detail with the Comelec.

Nerez said they will soon train other security guards to be TSDs. The first batch of graduates last Wednesday can renew their licenses as protective agents if these expire. — Niña G. Sumacot/JMO (THE FREEMAN)