The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has mobilized over 10,000 policemen to secure transportation hubs, major thoroughfares and expected places of convergence in Metro Manila during the Holy Week.
NCRPO director Maj. Gen. Anthony A. Aberin said the deployment also covers residential and business areas that need police presence at the span of the Holy Week break, starting as early as Wednesday, April 16.
“We will have 24/7 security coverage. Our target is to secure key locations, from serene places of worship to bustling transport terminals and busy commercial areas,” said Aberin.
He said police presence will be felt in around 300 churches where over 1,000 policemen were deployed; malls and business centers where almost 600 cops were assigned; transport hubs where almost 400 lawmen were tapped; and, major thoroughfares where almost 800 policemen are expected to assist in managing traffic and provide road assistance.
Almost 1,000 cops were also assigned to secure parks and recreational spaces and a sufficient number of policemen in major entry points of Metro Manila.
Aberin said the security coverage also includes the conduct of mobile and motorcycle patrols and setting up of checkpoints.
He said covert red teams will conduct discreet security assessments while a ready Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) is also on alert for any immediate needs.
“The NCRPO is significantly increasing our visible presence and our overall vigilance to ensure a peaceful and secure observance for everyone. The NCRPO appeals to the public to be proactive in ensuring their own safety and the security of their communities,” said Aberin.
Aberin also ordered the policemen to focus on their job and to ensure alertness at all times.
“I expect every police officer’s commitment to their assigned tasks. I, together with the senior officers of NCRPO, will be on the ground to ensure the prompt and proper delivery of police services towards our collective goal of having a safe, secure and solemn Holy Week,” said Aberin.