Abalos orders PNP, LGUs to prepare for protest-related security issues on Labor Day
By Chito Chavez
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. ordered the local government units (LGUs) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to prepare for possible any untoward incident relating to May 1 Labor Day rallies.
Abalos issued the call to ensure public safety with militant and left-leaning groups holding protests and crowding the major thoroughfares and secondary roads in past Labor Day celebrations.
Abalos specifically reminded the Metro Manila LGUs in tandem with the local police forces to be prepared for any eventuality in the event of rallies and demonstrations conducted by militant and labor groups in their respective areas of jurisdiction.
“While we support all lawful and peaceful activities in commemoration of Labor Day, we must ensure public safety and peace and order,” Abalos said.
Abalos also called on the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC)-NCR and PNP to discuss the security measures that need to be enforced in next week’s Labor Day celebration.
“Let us make sure that a sizable security contingent will be fielded particularly in known convergence areas while the policy of maximum tolerance will be strictly observed by police security forces,” Abalos noted.
“I urge our Metro Manila LCEs (local chief executives) and the PNP leadership to enforce a strategic plan to cover various aspects of police operations such as traffic management, civil disturbance management, anti-criminality and counter-terrorism, emergency response, and other necessary measures for an orderly, peaceful, and successful event,” he added.
The DILG chief stated that the public may contact the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) through the hotlines 0915-888-8181 or 0999-901-8181 during emergency cases or when the need arises.