Cops also ready for planned rallies vs. VP’s impeachment
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has enhanced its presence in strategic areas around the country to deter criminal elements who are particularly active during the holiday season, and to keep the peace ahead of planned rallies by groups, including the Iglesia ni Cristo, against the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte.
In the National Capital Region (NCR), “more than 8,000” police officers are already deployed round-the-clock in anticipation of disturbances arising from political fervor or the seasonal uptick in criminality, and this level of manpower will remain until the ‘Traslacion’ or Feast of the Black Nazarene on January 10 next year.
NCR Police Office spokesperson Major Myrna Diploma told the Manila Standard on Sunday that an augmentation force can still be fielded on top of the over 8,000-strong force currently deployed around the Metropolis if the need arises.
It was also mentioned that police personnel are not permitted to go on extended leave during the holiday season.
PNP chief Police General Rommel Marbil said that police officers are duty-bound to ensure public safety during large political gatherings, even as he reminded them to maintain professional distance from participants.
“The PNP is a professional and apolitical organization. We are here to serve and protect all Filipinos, regardless of the political climate,” he said in a statement on Sunday.
Marbil revealed that uniformed personnel will be pre-positioned in public places such as malls, shopping centers, public markets and transport hubs, allowing them to quickly respond to various public safety challenges.
“Christmas is a season of joy and giving, but it is also a period when criminal elements may exploit public vulnerability. The PNP is committed to making this season safe and secure for all Filipinos,” he added.
The national police chief disclosed that quick response teams will also be on standby to immediately address incidents.
Also, the PNP’s Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) is on alert to foil online scams and fraud that proliferate during the Christmas season, as scammers try to take advantage of the public’s appetite for shopping.
“We aim to provide peace of mind during the holiday rush. Our operations target the syndicates behind these scams, but the public’s awareness and caution are crucial in preventing victimization,” Marbil added.
Meanwhile, NCRPO acting chief, Police Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin said that uniformed personnel with help from deputized security personnel will be positioned in churches, malls, public markets, major thoroughfares and transportation hubs.
“Ensuring a secure and joyous Yuletide Season is of utmost importance, and as we approach this festive time, NCRPO remains steadfast in its readiness and capability to achieve the peaceful and orderly celebration of Ligtas Paskuhan 2024 in Metro Manila,” he said on Sunday.
Police assistance desks have been established to provide assistance and ensure swift emergency response, Aberin added.
As this developed, supporters of the Vice President on Sunday flocked to Plaza Independencia in Cebu City to protest the impeachment moves against her, GMA News reported.
Before gathering at the plaza, the supporters held a “Protect the Vice President” caravan that came from different parts of the province, based on a report on Super Radyo Cebu.
Duterte is currently facing two impeachment complaints, the first of which was filed by advocacy groups on the grounds of alleged corruption, bribery, betrayal of public trust, and other high crimes, which was was endorsed by Akbayan Party-list Rep. Perci Cendaña.
The second impeachment complaint was filed by more than 70 representatives from various sectors, anchored on alleged betrayal of public trust in connection with alleged misuse of confidential funds, and endorsed by the progressive Makabayan bloc.