PSG Justifies Use of Presidential Chopper for PBBM’s Attendance at Coldplay Concert in Manila

MANILA – The Presidential Security Group (PSG) has addressed concerns raised over President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s use of the presidential chopper to attend a Coldplay concert at Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan. This response came after widespread attention was drawn to photos and videos of the President and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos using the chopper on Friday night.

According to the Philippines News Agency, the decision was influenced by an unexpected surge of 40,000 individuals at the Philippine Arena, which led to significant traffic issues. The PSG, considering the intense traffic as a security risk, opted for the aerial route to ensure the President’s safety. Morales emphasized the importance of such measures for the security of the nation’s leader, especially in the face of unforeseen challenges.

The concert, held on January 19 and 20, is part of British rock band Coldplay’s ‘Music of the Spheres’ world tour’s Southeast Asia leg. Following the Philippines, the band is scheduled to perform in Singapore and Bangkok. Additionally, the North Luzon Expressway issued a traffic advisory in anticipation of the heavy congestion typically associated with events at the Iglesia ni Cristo-run arena.

The PSG’s decision and subsequent explanation come amidst a broader conversation about the use of state resources and the safety of high-profile leaders in the Philippines.