OVER 40,000 policemen will be deployed at places of convergence, including malls and tourist spots, to ensure public safety during the Christmas season.
During the Bagong Pilipinas public briefing yesterday, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said police visibility is needed in these areas to give people a “sense of security and peace of mind.”
“More than 40,000 (policemen) will be deployed nationwide,” said Fajardo, adding many of these policemen will be sent to ensure peace and order at places of worship.
Simbang Gabi is due to start on December 16.
Fajardo said policemen will also be deployed at other places of convergence like malls, markets, and transport terminals.
“And, of course, tourist spots. We will also be deploying our tourist police to make sure that enough policemen is guarding (the tourist spots),” said Fajardo.
Fajardo said PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil ordered intensified police visibility in these areas because he wants the public to feel safe and enjoy the Yuletide season.
Fajardo said the PNP expects a reduction in crime incidence if policemen would be out in the streets.
“Would-be criminals will have second thoughts (before committing a crime) because policemen are in the vicinity,” said Fajardo.
In a press briefing at Camp Crame, Fajardo said around 41,000 policemen will be deployed to maintain peace and order during the holidays.
Fajardo also said the PNP will not allow policemen to go on leave starting December 15, unless in cases of emergency.
“Our Chief PNP ordered the intensified police presence and visibility in areas of convergence, including markets, malls and transportation hubs,” said Fajardo.
He said they expect people in these areas to double or even triple during the Christmas season.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said it will be on heightened alert from December 13 to January 6.
PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan has instructed all PCG districts, stations and sub-stations to intensify security and safety measures at all ports and ferry terminals.
The PCG said this is to ensure the orderly operations of sea transport facilities, convenient travel of the seafaring public, peaceful celebration of Christmas, and security of tourists in beaches and private resorts nationwide.
“Our kababayans have long been waiting for this season to spend quality time with their families and loved ones, either at their home provinces or in various vacation spots. Thus, we are anticipating and preparing for the high volume of maritime traffic,” said Gavan.
Gavan said the PCG will conduct “24/7 monitoring of nautical highways routes, especially in the Visayas where most tourist destinations are located.
“Rest assured, we will ensure maritime security and safety on our western and eastern seaboards, including inter-island routes. Our deployable response groups and the PCG Auxiliary are ready for these operations,” said Gavan.
