By Genalyn Kabiling

The Presidential Security Group (PSG) has appealed for public understanding following the inconvenience caused by the closure of some Metro Manila roads during the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

(Ali Vicoy/ MANILA BULLETIN)

According to PSG spokesperson Capt. Zeerah Blance Lucrecia, they coordinated with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on route security and traffic management during Xi’s visit.

But she made clear that the decision to shut down some roads was the call made by the police and the MMDA.

“In connection with the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Presidential Security Group had an array of tasks for its Security Preparations that includes Route Security and Traffic Management, in which case, we (PSG) have requested assistance from the PNP and the MMDA,” Lucrecia said.

“As to its implementation and how they accomplish such task, it’s their call and would involve their concept of operations to ensure that the designated route/s is/are secured. In connection with the visit, we appeal to the understanding those may have been affected,” she said.

She explained that as the country hosted its state guest, they wanted to provide “the necessary hospitality and security to ensure the smooth flow of their movement.”

The MMDA earlier claimed that it was the PSG that decided to close some roads in Bonifacio Global City and the Skyway leading to the Ninoy Aquino Airport as part of the security arrangement for the visiting Chinese leader.

Xi, who paid a two-day state visit to the country to foster closer bilateral cooperation, stayed at a hotel in BGC, prompting authorities to close some roads in the area. The Chinese leader left the country Wednesday afternoon.

The unannounced closure of some roads has reportedly triggered a deluge of complaints from motorists and commuters.