MORE than 5,000 policemen will be deployed in Metro Manila to ensure peace and order during the opening of classes in public schools on Monday, June 16, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said yesterday.
Of the total 5,344 policemen who will be deployed under the PNP’s Oplan Balik Eskwela in the metropolis, 1,429 will man police assistance desks (PADs), the NCRPO said.
These PADs, the NCRPO said, will be “strategically positioned” near schools and will be supported by tactical units such as the Tactical Motorcycle Riding Unit, Cohort/Covert Teams, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal/K9 teams” to deter criminal elements and respond swiftly to emergencies.”
The NCRPO said other policemen will conduct mobile and foot patrols, “ensuring 24/7 ground coverage not only around schools but across high-traffic and risk-prone areas.”
“This regional deployment covers 1,206 public and private schools, ensuring a comprehensive, coordinated, and visible police presence,” the NCRPO said, adding the deployment will be held in close coordination with school officials.
It said the deployment will be parallel to the ongoing increased police visibility efforts in the metropolis.
“Regardless of the number of personnel deployed in each area, their presence serves as a powerful deterrent and a source of confidence for the community,” the NCRPO said.
NCRPO director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin said the deployment is in response to PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III’s directive for a five-minute response to all emergencies.
Aberin also said this is part of NCRPO’s broader mission to deliver a prompt, effective, and people-centered police service.
Aberin assured the students, their parents and teachers that the NCRPO “will be there to ensure safety and security anchored on our recalibrated police visibility and our institutionalized quick response to police emergencies.”
