“Tagum City is more than a peaceful place. Even me, I can go alone, anywhere around the City. If we cannot secure the area, we will not invite them here.”

This was the assurance given by Hon. Rey T. Uy, City Mayor in an interview on February 4, concerning the peace and order condition in Tagum City and on issues of securing the delegates during the National English Jazz Chants Festival on February 15-17 and the National Schools Press Conference on February 22-26, 2010.

As a part of the security measures, Mayor Uy cited the presence of the Philippine Army at the perimeter area and the Philippine National Police at the City Proper; including the services of the Barangay Tanod, the City Security Unit; the Traffic Enforcers; and the Barangay Officials.

Mayor Uy also lauded the ever concern of the Barangay Officials who will be active in patrolling that time, not only in their respective localities, but even in the Poblacion, as well.

As to the extent of support, Mayor Uy said, “110% we support the events! All possible resources are provided. The physical arrangement of the venues are well-taken cared; the water and light facilities of the billeting centers; the caterers who are all from Tagum are already selected; and the cushion for the beddings of every delegate is already purchased and ready. We are set for the hosting.”

On the other hand, in a related meeting of the City Peace and Order Council last January 8, Vice Mayor Allan L. Rellon also made an assurance on the security of visitors who come to the City, “We make a stand that security measures will not be taken lightly.”

The City Government is in close coordination with DepEd in the said Events. It has extended financial and logistics support in order to have a worthwhile conduct of the said events.