OVER 40,000 policemen will be deployed across the country to ensure public safety during the summer season when people traditionally go on vacation, the PNP said yesterday.
The deployment is in line with the newly-launched PNP Oplan Ligtas Sumvac (summer vacation) 2025, which details security measures that will be implemented from April 1 to May 31.
“As we welcome Summer Vacation 2025, the PNP is fully prepared to ensure the safety of our people. Our law enforcement officers will be on the ground, working tirelessly to keep our communities secure,” said PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil.
Marbil urged the public to “remain vigilant, cooperate with authorities, and immediately report any suspicious activities.”
“By working together, we can make this summer safe and enjoyable for everyone,” the PNP chief said.
In a statement, the PNP said it expects the influx of local travelers, balikbayans, and tourists at transport terminals, major highways, commercial establishments, and recreational sites.
This, the PNP said, requires “heightened police presence to prevent criminal activities and ensure public safety” in these areas.
“As the number of people in crowded areas increases, a rise in crime cases such as burglary, theft, and other illegal activities is also expected. Traffic congestion along major thoroughfares and provincial roads is also a recurring concern, along with overcrowding in bus terminals, airports, and seaports,” the PNP said.
“Additionally, with many homes left unattended for extended periods, burglars may take advantage of the situation,” the PNP added.
It said there is also a possibility that “threat groups and criminal elements” would attempt to disrupt peace and order during the summer season, coinciding with the national and local elections.
“To address these challenges, the PNP will deploy 40,151 personnel nationwide under the enhanced operational concept of managing police operations strategy, which focuses on increasing police visibility, intensifying patrol operations, and enhancing coordination with other government agencies and local government units,” the PNP said.
It added that police assistance desks will be established at transport hubs, tourist spots and other major event venues to be able to provide immediate assistance in case of emergency.
“Law enforcement operations will be strengthened to deter criminal activities, while security inspections and intelligence monitoring will be heightened in key areas, including critical infrastructures, transport terminals, and places of worship,” it said.
The PNP said there will be strict implementation of road safety measures to ease traffic congestion and prevent vehicular accidents.
The PNP also urged the public to be vigilant when swimming.
“We all want to enjoy our holidays, but safety should always be a priority. The PNP is here to ensure security with our tourist police deployed across various beach resorts and tourist spots,” said Marbil.
“However, we must not forget that our personal safety also depends on the precautions we take,” Marbil said.
The PNP said 94 people died of drowning from April 1 to May 31 last year. During the same period in 2023, the PNP recorded 126 deaths also due to drowning.
“We want everyone to enjoy the holiday season, but it is crucial that we all take safety seriously. Whether at the beach or in any public area, let us make sure we’re watching out for each other and following safety guidelines,” said Marbil.
