The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced they are now on full alert ahead of Undas or All Saints’ Day this week.
The PNP said there were no monitored terror threats for the season.
“Effective today, I am placing the entire Philippine National Police on full alert to ensure the availability of all personnel and resources for law enforcement and public safety operations ahead of the traditional All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day holiday this coming weekend,” Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa, officer-in-charge of the PNP said in a press briefing.
Gamboa added that over 35,000 police officers will be deployed all over the country. The PNP assured the public these policemen will provide support units and secure the public.
Some 15 million Filipinos are expected to flock to thousands of cemeteries across the country.
Gamboa also said some 99,000 additional personnel from the local government units, as well as civic action and volunteer groups will also be helping on Undas.
Airports, seaports, bus terminals and train stations are also beefing up security measures ahead of the holiday season.
“The key element in this security operation is police visibility, considering both its crime deterrent and reassuring effect on the public. This is the general guidance to all police regional offices and national support units,” Gamboa said.
The PNP chief also vowed to have police visibility and random inspections of police units to assess their readiness this holiday season.
“But even as these security and public safety efforts get underway, aggressive anti-illegal drugs operations will continue without let-up against possible pot sessions and drug trafficking activities in public cemeteries and memorial parks this weekend,” Gamboa added. (TN)
