POLICE offer free rides to stranded passengers during the transport strike in Bicol. (FB)
LEGAZPI CITY – The Police Regional Office-5 (Bicol) will deploy more than 3,500 personnel during the planned protest actions on Sept. 21 to ensure public safety and order across the Bicol region.
“The wide-scale deployment underscores the PNP’s commitment to protect the rights of rally participants, commuters, and the general public, while maintaining peace, order, and the normal flow of community life in areas that may be affected by these activities,” PRO-5 Director Police Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr. said.
A total of 207 personnel will manage civil disturbance control while 14 drone operators will conduct aerial monitoring.
To maintain visibility and deter potential threats, 850 personnel will be fielded, supported by 103 transport escorts.
Quick response capability will be strengthened with 1,134 personnel on mobile patrols, alongside 591 officers assigned to traffic management.
Babagay added that personnel from the police stations would secure checkpoints and border control points across the region.
“We call on everyone to remain calm and cooperative. The PNP stands ready to safeguard public safety while respecting the people’s right to peaceful assembly,” he said.
He said police would exercise maximum tolerance in handling mass actions, balancing the protection of public safety with respect for constitutional rights. (PNA)