The Philippine Chapter of ASIS International successfully conducted its 2nd Asset Protection Lecture Series and National Convention in Cebu City, Philippines on November 27, 28, and 29, 2012.
The events were attended by more than 57 top security personnel from big national and global corporations, including one from a big industrial conglomerate based in Bangkok, Thailand.
The national convention was organized by SecurityMatters Magazine and sponsored by Ace And Associates, Inc., EMME Security Group, Everbest Security Agency, Inc; and Security Bank Corporation.
The keynote message of Secretary Rafael Alunan III highlighted critical concerns in asset protection. Mr. Alunan, who was then the DILG Secretary when a major earthquake shook Baguio City, Mt. Pinatubo erupted, and several coup attempts were staged, emphasized that “failure in one asset or infrastructure can cascade to disruption or failure in others with far-reaching consequences to national security and public confidence.”
Mr. Alunan also pointed out what most in the government seems to miss, that a significant number of critical infrastructure is owned or operated by the private sector. These privately held assets, from water treatment plants and refineries to research universities and shopping malls, represent points of critical vulnerability from man-made or natural disasters that could harm the national interest.
Retired Police Director General Edgardo Aglipay delivered his inspirational talk with emphasis on the relevance and benefits of having security consultants in asset protection of various organizations. General Aglipay was so supportive of the ASIS event that his company, EMME Security Group, one of the largest security services providers in the country, was one of the gold sponsors.
Managing the physical security program was the message of Mr. Bing Mendezona, VP for Security of Aboitiz Equity Ventures. He highlighted the need of good communication in relaying to stakeholders the benefits and the details of a physical security program. He cited lessons from ASIS International standards and Aboitiz Equity Ventures’ physical security program, which he is running.
Col. (Ret.) Clarence Martinez, shared the essential points of the International Ship and Port Facility Security and National Security Program for Sea Transport and Maritime Infrastructure. He is the Security Manager and Port Facility Security Officer of Tsuneishi Heavy Industries, (Cebu) Inc., one of the premier shipbuilding companies in the country.
The afternoon speakers delivered spirited topics to perk up the siesta effect of the sumptuous lunch. Col. Dencio Acop of Pfizer Philippines shared the challenges of addressing the global menace of counterfeit drugs especially Viagra, Pfizer’s patented and well-known product.
Ace Esmeralda of SecurityMatters presented the issues affecting corporate security and the new media, a rather new concept that very few security practitioners have fully grasped before.
Danny Pineda, current president of the Accommodation Establishment Security and Safety Coordinating Council, Inc. (AESSCCI), highlighted the security issues in the hospitality industry. He shared the various modus operandi targeting hotel guests and patrons.
The National Convention was also the venue for the good standing members of ASIS International to elect their national chapter officers. Elected for 2013 Officers were Atty. Paulino Yusi, as Chairman; Mario Manipol, CPP, Vice Chairman, Jose Verceles III. as Secretary, Ernesto Francisco as treasurer, and Alvin Matabang, auditor.
Col. Acop and Atty. Yusi, outgoing and incoming chapter chair, respectively, were pleased as almost 40 of the attendees signed up to join the ASIS International and Philippine chapter as new members.
The National Convention was preceded by the 2nd Asset Protection Lecture Series conducted by SecurityMatters and ASIS Philippine Chapter where 57 individuals from various industries in the country attended.
