More than 41,000 cops will be deployed nationwide during the Christmas season, the Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed the Manila Standard report yesterday.
PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Jean Fajardo said: “Initially, we will deploy over 41,000 personnel nationwide,” adding that police officers will no longer be allowed to take leaves by December 15.
According to Fajardo, PNP chief General Rommel Marbil ordered more police visibility in areas of convergence such as markets, malls, and transport terminals in light of the expected influx of travelers.
The PNP on Sunday said its units nationwide have been directed to intensify regular patrols in high-traffic areas as the holiday season approaches.
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) acting chief Police Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin meanwhile said that police officers from the capital and allied security personnel will be deployed in churches, malls, public markets, major thoroughfares, and transportation hubs.
Police assistance desks have been established to provide assistance and ensure swift emergency response.
The Southern Police District (SPD) is set to deploy 2,154 SPD personnel to ensure public safety and security across Southern Metro Manila during the Christmas and New Year festivities.
In addition to SPD personnel, 2,069 officers from allied forces and force multipliers will be part of the operation, further enhancing the security presence in crowded areas.
The Eastern Police District (EPD) is also gearing up to guarantee the safety and security of the community in its jurisdiction during major events such as Christmas Day, CPP/NPA Anniversary, Rizal Day and New Year celebration.
The EPD is set to deploy 1,665 EPD personnel who will man the Metro East strategic areas and places of convergence to ensure peace and order during holiday festivities.
EPD OIC Police Colonel Villamor Tuliao, directed all the officers of Pasig, Mandaluyong, Marikina and San Juan City Police Stations and DMFB to conduct information drive on the modus operandi of criminals in their respective areas of responsibilities to raise public awareness and prevent crime.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) issued a heightened alert from December 13 to January 6, 2025.
During the 25-day heightened alert period, PCG personnel will conduct inspections of passengers and their luggage. Medical teams will be assigned to assist in case of an emergency.
Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, the PCG Commandant, said that all those who shop this season will be able to double their vacations and go to the provinces or vacation spots that will be abundant as passengers.
The 24/7 monitoring of nautical highway routes is especially important in the Visayas, a tourist destination.
Maritime security is assured and the western and eastern seaboards along the inter-island routes are taken care of.
Apart from that, the PCG will also monitor beaches and private resorts across the country that may be crowded with tourists.
