ASEAN security personnel barred from using mobile phones

Members of the ASEAN Security Task Force (ASTF) have been ordered not to use mobile phones while on duty.

Director Napoeleon Taas, ASTF commander, said security personnel who will be caught using mobile phones while on duty during the 31st ASEAn Summit and Related Meeting in November will be "held accountable."

Taas did not cite specific punishments against security personnel who will not abide by the order.

He said the security men's immediate supervisors and commanders will also be held accountable.

“The directive is very clear: the use of cellular phones while on duty is strictly prohibited and anyone while on duty seen or caught tinkering with their device will be held accountable," Taas said.

“We believe that banning security personnel from using mobile phones while on duty would immensely help in ensuring the safety and security of all ASEAN delegates,” he added.

He said the use of mobile phones while on duty compromises the security plan laid out for the ASEAN events.

Meanwhile, at least 3,000 policemen will be deployed to help secure the 23rd Senior Officials Committee on Association of Southeast Asian Nations (SOCA) and 18th ASEN Socio-Cultural Community Council Meeting in Tagaygay City from September 11 to 14.

Task Group Site Tagaytay, composed of 21 government agencies, has been formed for the ASEAN event. —ALG, GMA News