Security official urges protest groups to delay demonstrations until after Asean Summit

MANILA — Retired Major General Potenciano Camba, deputy director of the security contingent preparing for the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit, has made a public appeal to protest groups to hold their demonstrations after the conclusion of the regional gathering.

Camba framed the request as an opportunity for Filipinos to demonstrate respect and courtesy to the visiting heads of state and government representatives attending the summit. The timing of protests during the international event could overshadow the country's role as host and potentially disrupt the proceedings, security officials have indicated.

The Philippines is preparing for a major diplomatic undertaking with the Asean Summit, which brings together leaders from the ten-member bloc of Southeast Asian nations. Security arrangements for such high-profile international events typically involve coordination with protest organizers and civil society groups to balance public order with citizens' constitutional rights to assembly and free expression.

Camba's appeal reflects ongoing efforts by summit organizers to ensure smooth proceedings while acknowledging the legitimate concerns of activist groups. The request represents a compromise approach, asking groups to defer rather than abandon their planned demonstrations.