Security tightened at Libingan ng mga Bayani for GMA

MANILA, Philippines – Security is tight in and around the Libingan ng mga Bayani, where President Arroyo is expected to pay respects to her late parents, former President Diosdado and Dr. Evangeline Macapagal, Army spokesman Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner said yesterday.

Mrs. Arroyo is expected to attend an 8 a.m. Mass at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City in commemoration of the All Saints’ Day.

The Libingan is the final resting place of 45,100 military personnel and other prominent personalities, including former Philippine presidents. The STAR’s late publisher Maximo V. Soliven is also buried there.

Brawner said the Army Support Command organized Task Force Pagmamahal led by Maj. Gen. Johnny Corcha to take care of security and traffic management in and around the cemetery.

A medical team from General Headquarters – backed by an ambulance – will be on call in case of emergency.

Other support teams include the Army K-9, Explosive and Ordnance Detection, Taguig City Police, and some non-government groups.

Brawner said ambulant vendors are not allowed at the Libingan. Alcohol, loud sound systems, deadly weapons, and gambling are also banned. – James Mananghaya