CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna – The Police Regional Office 4-A has deployed personnel to secure commuters in the Calabarzon or the Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon region during the three-day transport strike from April 29 to May 1.
Police Brig. Gen Paul Kenneth Lucas, PRO 4-A chief, ordered all police provincial directors to monitor the strike in coordination with local government units and relevant authorities to ensure that appropriate security measures are in place.
Lucas said that the PRO 4-A Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) is ready to be deployed and Civil Disturbance Management units have been activated to address any potential disruptions during the strike.
Red teams will conduct inspection to monitor the activities of the troops on the ground.
Police encouraged people in the region to stay at home if there is no important matter to attend to outside.
Philippine National Police and local government unit buses and trucks have been deployed to provide "Libreng Sakay" or free rides to stranded commuters.
Lucas advised the public to anticipate potential travel delays due to PNP checkpoints in coordination with the Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, and Highway Patrol Group.
The public was advised to expect increased police presence on roads, terminals, and gathering areas on Labor Day.
“In anticipation of any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies, we have also planned for a comprehensive emergency response to ensure prompt and effective assistance to anyone in need of medical attention or other forms of assistance during the strike. Nakahanda tayong tugunan ang ating mga kababayan lalo na at napakatindi ng nararamdaman nating init ng panahon (We are ready to respond to the people amid the extreme heat),” Lucas said.
He reminded lawmen manning checkpoints and conducting police operations to exercise maximum tolerance and respect for human rights. “Pairalin natin ang maximum tolerance. Ang trabaho natin ay magbantay at panatilihin ang kaayusan sa tatlong araw na ito (We will exercise maximum tolerance. Our job is to secure and maintain peace and order during the strike).”
He asked the public for understanding and solidarity as transport groups conduct the strike.
Lucas encouraged commuters to explore alternative transportation options and plan their journeys in advance to minimize disruptions.
“Stay informed about developments related to the strike through our official social media accounts and relevant government agencies with guidance on any changes to transportation services or traffic conditions.”