Metro cops deployed to Israeli embassy

Metro Manila Police chief Director Vidal Querol ordered yesterday the deployment of additional police security to the Israeli embassy in Makati City to thwart possible sympathy attacks over Israel’s bombing raids in Lebanon.

Querol said Israeli officials sought his assistance on Aug. 4 to ensure the security at the embassy as well as protecting people working in the country. Most of the embassies are located in Makati City, the country’s financial district.

"In fact, we have increased the number of security personnel at the Israeli embassy as well as synagogues of the Jewish community," Querol said.

He said that during a meeting with Israeli officials, concern was raised over the global consequence of the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah on Israeli interests, given the presence of Al Qaeda-linked terror groups in the Philippines.

Querol said he assured Israeli officials of the commitment of the Philippine government, particularly the Philippine National Police (PNP) to protect every individual in the country.

"We will help them to the best of our ability. Although the Israeli embassy has its own security, they still need security from the local police," he added. "We also promise to respond quickly in case they receive threats."

Meanwhile, about two dozen Muslim activists burned an Israeli flag in a noisy protest yesterday, demanding a halt to Israeli attacks on Lebanon and the withdrawal of its troops.

A few policemen stood close by, but allowed the brief protest to go on in front of a building housing the Israeli embassy in Makati. The protest ended without incident.

As the protesters shouted "Allahu Akbar (God is great)," a Muslim activist set an Israeli flag on fire. They brandished placards, including one that read: "Israel, butcher of children."

Protest leader Tom del Monte said the rally was part of the Filipino Muslim community’s expression of outrage over the "killing of civilians, children and women in Lebanon."

Protesters demanded an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional withdrawal of troops from Lebanon. – With AP