PSG checking ‘minor’ security threats vs Aquino

The Presidential Security Group (PSG) is checking reports of possible security threats against President Benigno Aquino III, even as the chief executive's impending move from his Times Street to Bahay Pangarap makes it easier to secure him. This was bared on Thursday by PSG commander Col. Ramon Dizon, who explained that while the reported possible security threats are expected because Aquino is the chief executive, the PSG is still looking into the reports because "anything minor has to be investigated." "There are reports, we're checking on them. They're not major issues at this time but like with any president you tend to get reports that may demand the heightening of security," said Dizon in a press briefing in Malacanang. Dizon refused to divulge details about the reports, but he said the current threat to Aquino's security "is not really that high." He said the PSG is adjusting its protocols to fit the movements of Aquino, who refuses to use sirens ("wang-wang") when traveling and is known to be very accommodating to those who want their photos taken with him. "He's really a person who wants to get down to the grassroots and mingle with the people and it's up to the PSG… to adjust," Dizon said. "We're constantly reviewing our SOP’s (standard operating procedures) in adjusting to what he wants to do." On the other hand, Dizon said the president’s new home within the Malacañang Park compound, Bahay Pangarap, has been renovated and its security strengthened, so that Aquino can already move in over the weekend. Bahay Pangarap is located inside Malacanang Park. To get to his office at the Premier Guesthouse, Aquino has the option to take a short travel route by land across Nagtahan Bridge, or directly cross the Pasig River aboard the presidential barge, which may take only five minutes. Three additional rooms — a guest room, a room for Aquino's household staff, and a room for his close-in security — have been added to the originally one-room Bahay Pangarap. The PSG chief said they have also written the Philippine Coast Guard to strengthen security systems for ferries that go across the Pasig River to ensure maximum security for the president. Dizon said the stench of the Pasig River, while a constant problem for everyone, is "not that bad" from Bahay Pangarap. According to the Presidential Museum and Library, Aquino is the first president of the Philippines to make Bahay Pangarap his official residence, although previous presidents have stayed there. His predecessor, former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, had stayed at the Malacañan Palace.—Jam L. Sisante/JV, GMANews.TV