'Walang tiwala': Police forces on alert despite Reds' New Year truce declaration
Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (Courtesy of PNP)
Police forces in areas where communist rebels operate were alerted for possible attack despite the Communist Party of the Philippines’ declaring New Year ceasefire that will start on Dec, 31.
Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said police units must remain vigilant and fully prepared to respond to any operation that would be conducted by the NPA.
“Our security measures are in place and our police forces are always on alert against any strategic movement of these people and any of their treacherous attacks,” said Nartatez.
“I have directed the deployment of additional personnel to public areas as well as to police stations in far-flung provinces, especially in locations vulnerable to attack. We have been working together with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to secure not only vital installations but the communities as well,” he added.
The CPP”s Central Committee earlier announced a Christmas and New Year truce, but it said it would remain on “active defense mode” and “high alert”.
While the truce declared by the rebels has been rejected by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Nartatez emphasized that the PNP will continue coordinating closely with the military to prevent any security incidents and maintain peace and order nationwide.