PNP deploys drones, around 10,000 cops to secure transport strike
photo: PNP-Negros Island Region
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has mobilized around 10,000 policemen to secure the March 19 transport strike in Metro Manila and other parts of the country.
PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf T. Tuaño said the policemen were tasked to maintain peace and order in protest action sites and provide assistance to the affected commuters.
“They were strategically deployed to ensure public safety, manage traffic flow, and assist affected commuters,” said Tuaño.
He said 571 of the policemen will be assigned to fixed visibility posts; 1,564 to mobile patrol operations; 1,298 to motorcycle patrols; and 2,312 to foot patrol duties to maximize police presence in key areas.
Around 193 personnel have been designated for traffic assistance while 1,701 will be manning checkpoints and border control points. A total of 585 Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) personnel are on active deployment, with 1,604 on standby as augmentation forces.
Tuaño said the deployment is reinforced by 428 Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) personnel and 59 drone operators to enhance situational awareness and monitoring.
“The PNP is also coordinating with concerned government agencies and local government units to support Libreng Sakay initiatives to help stranded passengers reach their destinations,” said Tuaño.