THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday assured its 100 percent readiness to secure the 19th Edition of the International Basketball Federation or FIBA Basketball World Cup (FBWC) 2023 to be hosted by the country from August 25 to September 10 this year.

PNP chief General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. said the PNP will implement its tried and tested major events security framework during the event, as it recognizes the

inherent opportunities for threat groups, both local and international, to exploit large-scale events, among them the major basketball event which will feature world-class basketball players around the world.

The top cop said the police aims to achieve “zero incidents” during the international sporting event and safeguard the lives of all players, delegates, officials, other participants and the spectators.

FIBA is the association of national organizations which governs the sport of basketball worldwide.

Acorda said the PNP is fully committed to ensuring uninterrupted conduct of the event while collaborating closely with all stakeholders.

He said the same security strategy implemented in successful international events held in the country, such as the 2015 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or APEC Summit, the 2015 Papal Visit, the 2017 Association of Southeast Asian Nations or ASEAN Summit and the 2020 Miss Universe Pageant, will serve as template for the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Acorda also expressed full confidence in the PNP’s capability to provide a safe and secure environment for the 19th FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 event, while prioritizing the safety and security of all participants, officials and spectators.

The PNP chief said the Security Task Force (STF) FBWC 2023 has been organized as the primary body responsible for conducting security operations and other related public safety services during the basketball event.

The task force will be supervised by PNP Deputy Chief for Operations, Lieutenant Gen. Michael John F. Dubria and PNP Director for Operations, Brigadier Gen. Leo M. Francisco.

Acorda said the STF FBWC 2023 will also coordinate with various organizations, including the Philippine Sports Commission, FBWC 2023 LOC, Samahang Basketbolista ng Pilipinas, local government units, different stakeholders and other concerned agencies.

Known as FIBA’s flagship event, the FBWC 2023 will be hosted across three nations in Asia: the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia. The Philippines will specifically host participants from Africa, Americas, Asia-Pacific and Europe.

With a total of 3,253 FBWC customer groups expected to participate, Acorda said the police wants to ensure a secure environment during the holding of the event.

The opening ceremony and opening games will be held at the Philippine Arena in Ciudad de Victoria located between Bocaue and Sta. Maria in Bulacan.

Set to play during the game opener are Angola versus Italy and the Philippines’ Gilas team which will see action against the strong Dominican Republic team.

“The PNP is fully committed to the success of this prestigious international event. We are working closely with our partner agencies to deliver a memorable experience for everyone involved,” Acorda said.

PNP Public Information Office chief, Brig. Gen. Redrico A. Maranan called on the public to support the police’s efforts and to remain vigilant throughout the duration of the basketball event.

“The 19th FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 presents an exciting opportunity for our country to showcase its hospitality and love for sports. As the head spokesperson for the STF FBWC 2023, I assure everyone that we are committed to providing timely and accurate information regarding the security measures implemented. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for all,” Maranan said.