At least 1,000 police personnel in Manila will go on heightened alert early Saturday for the face-off between Filipino boxing icon and Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao and Mexican boxing legend Juan Manuel Marquez.
Manila Police District head Chief Superintendent Roberto Rongavilla said the police assigned to the venue should be on heightened alert at 6:30 a.m. Saturday, radio dzBB's Cecilia Villarosa reported.
Rongavilla said the 1,000 police personnel will include members from the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) and Civil Disturbance Management units.
Earlier, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim said he expects fans to flock to the Quirino Grandstand where Pacquiao and Marquez will meet to promote their Nov. 12 bout.
Marquez had arrived in the Philippines Thursday to promote the bout. The face-off is expected to start at 2:30 p.m.
Also, Rongavilla appealed to fans not to bring valuable items to the venue lest snatchers and thieves strike.
He said the police cannot discount the possibility of thieves exploiting the large crowds to steal wallets, jewelry and other valuables. — LBG
