SEA Games officials OK security in Philippines

SEA Games officials OK security in Philippines

Agencies, Manila

Top officials of the 23rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games brushed aside security concerns for the region's largest biennial meet, to be hosted by Manila and five other Philippine cities later this year.

"We are not worried about our security. We have noted that security was the top priority of host Philippines," Low Beng Choo of Malaysia, one of delegation heads from participating countries who made a three-day inspection of the various sites, was quoted as saying by The Associated Press

"We have full confidence in the Philippines," she said, adding that the country will be the big winner, no matter what the medals table says.

"Your hosting of this biggest regional sports event will unite the Filipino people. It's good for the people."

The Philippines has been hit by periodic terror attacks in recent years and is fighting long-running communist and Muslim separatist insurgencies.

An estimated 5,000 athletes will participate on Nov. 27-Dec. 5, representing 11 ASEAN countries - Brunei, Cambodia, East Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Philippines.

It is the third time that the Philippines has hosted the games, and the first since 1991. There has been opposiition to the cost of the games, as well as concerns about the suitability of some of the facilities -- including the 50-year-old Rizal Memorial Park designated for athletics and swimming.