Tight security for Marcos grandchild’s wedding

St. Augustine Church, or more popularly known as Paoay church, is one of the oldest churches. Located in Ilocos Norte (north of Philippines). (Photo by Wowieology – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0)

LAOAG CITY— Almost a thousand police personnel, soldiers and force multipliers will be deployed on Saturday to the UNESCO world heritage site of Paoay Church to secure guests and visitors attending the “wedding of the year” in Ilocos Norte.

Police Supt. Randolph Beniat of the Ilocos Norte Police said in an interview Thursday that a very tight security plan is being prepared to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and crowd control for the nuptial celebration of Ilocos Norte Governor Ma. Imelda Marcos’ middle child, lawyer Ferdinand Richard Michael Marcos Manotoc.

Expected to attend the traditional Ilocano wedding ceremony are prominent figures from Metro Manila, including President Rodrigo Duterte.

On Saturday, Manotoc will tie the knot with his long-time girlfriend Carina Amelia Manglapus. The couple already has a baby daughter.

Provincial Tourism Officer Ianree Raquel described the event as a showcase of traditional Ilocano wedding ritual with the so-called “dallot” (a chant for entreatment) and “bitor” (dropping of money onto plates) as highlights.

However, the money to be collected from the wedding, as agreed upon by the couple, shall be used as additional aid for the ongoing rehabilitation in Marawi City.