Santiago City—In celebration of the 2019 Christmas Season, the Philippine National Police here has doubled their full red alert status from December 16, 2019 to January 5, 2020.
Police expect an increase in economic activities and the influx of people particularly in the urban centers like malls and department stores, hence the heightenend security.
According to Police Col. Juan Ramel Aggasid, Santiago City Police Director, “The situation may trigger the increase of street crimes traffic congestion and traffic accidents.”
Likewise, the traditional use firecrackers and fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices and the illegal discharge of firearms to celebrate Christmas and New Year are likewise expected to cause accidents that may result in loss of lives and limbs of persons and damage to property, Aggasid added.
The Santiago City Police office with its two police stations intensified its intelligence and counter-intelligence and anti-criminality campaign to prevent nefarious activities and thwart possible atrocities by lawless elements, he said.
Their activities include police presence and visibility, patrolling, checkpoint, maximum deployment of policemen to all vital installation, business establishments, shopping malls, terminals, plazas, and churches, especially during “Simbang Gabi” and other areas where people usually converge.
Police Major Reynaldo Manggay, Police Station I Commander, reminded the public of several modus operandi of the lawless elements.
“Crimes like Budol-Budol, Salisi snatching and other related activities are rampant during the celebration of the Yuletide Season. Hence, it is necessary for each of us to be on guard and be security conscious,” he said.
“We encourage Santiaguenos to partake by giving information of any potential threats and be vigilant with the sorroundings to ensure safety and security of everyone these Holiday Season,” Manggay added.
In an interview with Manila Standard, Police Col. Warlito Jagto, Santiago City Police Community Relations Chief, said: “Santiago City police office is now prepared for the yuletide Season all over the city which started on December 16 on the eve of the Simbang Gabi in Catholic Churches.”
“We are ready to protect and maintain safety and security of everybody in this special holiday season,” he added.
In coordination with the Department of Health, local government units and other concerned agencies, the implementation of plans and programs for the Yuletide Season is already prepared to ensure the peaceful celebration of the Yuletide Season in the city, Jagto added.0p