THE Philippine National Police (PNP) will not declare a Suspension of Offensive Police Operations (SOPO) against communist rebels across the country to prevent any insurgent atrocities to in connection with the 55th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) on Dec. 26.
In a press briefing on Monday, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said the PNP hierarchy has ordered all police regional offices to be on high alert against possible hostilities by communist insurgents and local terrorists.
The PNP has also heightened monitoring of crime-prone areas to prevent potential threats.
“We will not declare a suspension of police operations because history will tell us that when security forces declare SOPO and SOMO (suspension of military operations), the CTGs (communist terrorist groups)use it as an opportunity to initiate ambushes, harassment, and retaliatory attacks. So, for the purposes of their celebration this Dec. 26 and the whole duration of the holiday season there is no SOPO,” Fajardo said.
She also said the PNP is preparing in terms of intensifying the security measures particularly in the isolated and vulnerable stations and remote areas to thwart incidents of harassment and ambushes, especially now that they have arrested ranking communist leaders.
“We are anticipating the retaliatory attacks that they will do to us, and not only to the PNP but also to the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines), so your national police and AFP will work together to guard our far-flung police stations,” she said.
Meanwhile, Fajardo said some 47,000 officers have been deployed nationwide as part of Ligtas Paskuhan until Jan. 6, 2025.
She said the PNP has also cancelled the leaves of police officers effective Dec. 15, wherein some 47,000 officers have been deployed nationwide as part of Ligtas Paskuhan initiative.
Earlier, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil directed all police units to implement comprehensive security measures in coordination with local government units, church officials, and other concerned stakeholders.
Police Assistance Desks (PADs) will be set up near churches to assist the public, while foot and mobile patrols will be intensified in strategic areas, including public transport terminals, parking areas, and marketplaces.
Police units nationwide are also working closely with local government units, barangay officials, and other law enforcement agencies to respond to any emergencies or untoward incidents.
