CAMP DANGWA, Benguet -- In anticipation of the possible upsurge of crimes during the so-called ‘ber’ months, BGen. Mafelino Bazar, regional director, ordered all units of Police Regional Office-Cordillera to heighten their presence and visibility in their area of responsibility.
Bazar said that based on last year’s record from the Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division (RIDMD), the last four months of 2021 showed an uptrend in crime commission.
In September 2021, a total of 238 crime incidents were recorded.
Bazar noted that most of the crimes committed were theft (25 percent), robbery (12 percent), and physical injuries (11 percent).
To avoid a repeat of this trend, Bazar has ordered to maximize the deployment of personnel in all crime-prone areas and other places of convergence or those areas frequented by residents or tourists.
"As a preparation, I have ordered the prompt deployment of personnel to immediately address the possible increase in crime trends,” said Bazar.
“I ordered the policemen in the office to render patrol duties and at the same time hand out calling cards that can be called when our countrymen need help," added Bazar.
He said, more police personnel will be deployed on foot and mobile patrol and police assistance desks will also be established in terminals and all tourist spots.
Bazar cited that it is during these ‘ber’ months that major events happen, including All Saints' and Souls' Day, Christmas Season, Rizal Day, and New Year’s Celebration.
"We are united with our countrymen in our efforts to develop the peace and order situation in our region. We will do everything we can to protect you but what we want is your cooperation by being careful and promptly asking for help from those concerned," said Bazar.
Aside from heightening the police presence and visibility, PROCOR is also tapping the help of the barangay peacekeepers and other force multipliers in conducting patrols and other anti-criminality measures in their localities.