LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) -- The Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office (INPPO) presented on April 23 the intensified security precautions to ensure safety of delegates in the ongoing Region 1 Athletic Association (R1AA) Meet. 

This was discussed by PCol. Frederick Obar, acting provincial director, in a press conference held at INPPO Tanglaw Diwa Hall.

Obar stated that approximately 1,200 police officers were deployed, with an extra 150 personnel dispatched from the regional office, to assist in the implementation of peace and order amidst the conduct of the weeklong R1AA meet.

"We also have other uniformed personnel from the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), BFP (Bureau of Fire Protection), Philippine Coast Guard, and arines group that are also involved in maintaining security,” said Obar.

Responsibilities have been delineated, with the Philippine Coast Guard and Marines Group supervising water-related sports, while land-based activities are managed by the PNP, AFP, and BFP.

The PCG and the marines group are tapped to supervise water-related sports, while the police, army, and fire officers will oversee land-based games.

Moreover, criminology interns from Northwestern University and the Data Center College of the Philippines have been deployed to assist in ensuring safety during the regional sports event.

In addressing health concerns, especially the effect of high heat index in the province, hydration stations are provided for the deployed personnel.

The R1AA meet started on April 22 and will conclude through an awarding ceremony on April 27. (JCR/MJTAB/KALGB PIA Ilocos Norte)