By Andreah Dianne M. Cartagena

PHOTO: INQUIRER.net/GMA News

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) announced the activation of the Vice Presidential Security and Protection Group (VPSPG) on Friday, June 24.

The VPSPG is dedicated to ensure the safety and security of Vice President-elect Sara Duterte and her family.

“The AFP saw it fitting to provide the Office of the Vice President a dedicated unit that shall ensure the safety and security of the second-highest elected official in the country,” AFP Chief of Staff General Andres Centino said during the ceremony at AFP General Headquarters.

Meanwhile, Philippine Army Lieutenant Colonel Rene Giroy, who was previously assigned to the Presidential Security Group (PSG), took the helm as the first VPSPG commander.

Centino said that he is confident that the security group will perform “to the best of their abilities.”

The newly formed VPSPG was formerly the Vice Presidential Security Detachment which served outgoing Vice President Leni Robredo.

In a statement, Vice President-elect Duterte thanked the AFP for activating a separate unit that will "resolve the matter of continuity in security" for the country's vice presidents.

"This AFP initiative also highlights the importance of having an independent group that will provide all Philippine vice presidents with the necessary security and protection," she said.

To recall, Duterte had her inauguration as the 15th vice president of the Philippines on June 19, and will formally begin her term on June 30.


Edited by Danfe Lean Grace R. Elopre