Snipers, air cover to be deployed for Pope Francis arrival

MANILA, Philippines - Sniper teams, air cover and military troops will be deployed for the arrival of Pope Francis on January 15.

Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang said that sniper teams posted on six to eight high-rise buildings along the Pope's entourage will monitor the area for possible threats.

The airspace along Roxas Boulevard will also be cleared of all aircraft. Only those involved in securing the Pontiff will be allowed over the area.

Meanwhile, around 6,000 to 7,000 soldiers will be deployed in Manila, Tacloban City and Palo, Leyte to secure the Pope in his five-day visit in the country from January 15 to 19.

Catapang said that although they have yet to detect security threats for the Papal visit, their greatest concern is the "people surge" or the public attempting to get near the Pope.

"[That's why] we are putting up barricades (in the areas he will visit), hopefully, the people will understand that they will all have a chance to get a glimpse of the Pope," Catapang said.

He said they are looking at every possibility regarding the Pope's security.

The public is reminded to avoid putting Pope Francis in a "difficult situation."

Pope Francis is known for breaking security protocol in able to interact with the people, Catapang said. The Pope himself earlier requested that the popemobiles be open and accessible so that he can hear "the cries of the people."

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Catapang said he is confident that the AFP, together with the Philippine National Police, will be able to hurdle the security challenge during the Pope's visit.

The Pope scheduled to arrive at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City on January 15. The Papal convoy will then proceed to Roxas Boulevard toward the Apostolic Nunciature in Malate, Manila.

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