Philippine police heighten security measures for Holy Week, summer break

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up its security protocols for the coming Holy Week and summer vacation of students.

Starting March 23 until June 13, police presence will be increased in different parts of the country particularly in Metro Manila and areas usually patronized by tourists and travelers, PNP spokesperson Chief Superintendent John Bulalacao said today.

“The PNP is on full alert especially here in Metro Manila and the areas where there are more number of resorts in the Philippines like the Region 7, Region 11 and Region 4-B, naka-full alert. All personnel should be on duty except for those who are on medical leave,” Bulalacao said.

The increased number of policemen on patrol is part of the PNP “Ligtas Sumvac 2018” security plan which covers security measures for the coming May 14 barangay (village) and Sangguniang Kabataan (youth) elections as well.

Aside from increased police presence, assistance desks will also be put up in public places such as places of worship, shopping malls, bus terminals, airports, and major thoroughfares.

Director Camilo Pancratius Cascolan of the PNP Directorate for Operations also assured the public that the police is monitoring potential safety threats for the upcoming holidays.

Cascolan said so far, police have yet to verify reports of terrorist threats.

“They (police) are monitoring the activity of these suspected terrorists especially where there will be [a] convergence of people for the summer vacation,” he said.

“That’s why the deployment of our troops and our visibility have increased,” he added.

The PNP also reminded the public to take extra precaution, especially when traveling to far places.

“If they’re going out to vacation, they should secure their homes,” Cascolan said.

Meanwhile, the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (PNP-DEG) is on the lookout for party drugs that may be in demand this summer as a lot of parties take place in bars, resorts, and beaches.

Chief Supt. Albert Ferro, head of PNP-DEG, said police will be monitoring the possible sale of party drugs in resorts and bars.

“We don’t want a repeat of the party drug deaths (referring to the Close Up Forever Summer party in 2016). We’ll monitor beaches and intensify efforts versus those selling party drugs,” he said.