PNP warns of burglaries during Undas break

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) will implement Oplan Kaluluwa nationwide on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day to ensure peaceful and orderly observance of these special days.

PNP chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa advised the public not to leave their houses unattended or unsecured as akyat bahay burglars might have a field day.
Dela Rosa said although there may be some adjustments to ensure that security measures are appropriate, the PNP has prepared templates for tight security measures on Nov. 1 and 2.

He also urged subdivision and barangay leaders to form defense forces and patrol teams to coordinate and ensure the security of their respective areas.

Dela Rosa has approved the recommendation of National Capital Regional Police Office chief Director Oscar Albayalde to suspend the permit to carry firearms outside residence (PTCFOR) from Nov. 1 to 15 or from All Saints’ Day until the ASEAN summit.

Albayalde said aside from Metro Manila, the suspension of PTCFOR covers the Central Luzon provinces of Aurora, Bulacan, Bataan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija and Zambales.

He said authorities are also monitoring alleged recruitment of militant groups to join protest actions during the ASEAN.

He, however, said authorities have not monitored any specific threats during the special nonworking holidays.

The PNP issued tips for those leaving their homes, inside the cemeteries or taking public transport.

It said it would continue to implement police visibility, mobile patrols and checkpoints to deter crimes and other security threats to protect the public.

The PNP gave people some reminders before leaving their homes: lock all doors and windows and ensure that all possible entrances to the house are blocked; install a burglar alarm to alert the neighbors if someone breaks in; do not leave notes outside the house indicating you will be away; keep some appliances like radio on to give the impression that someone is inside the house; ask a trusted neighbor to keep watch over your house while you are away; ensure no candle, gas stove, leaking faucet or plugged appliance is left unattended; and secure all items outside the house such as clothes being hung out to dry, bicycles or vehicles.

When going inside cemeteries, police suggested the following: bring sufficient food and water; keep in mind that liquor and food sold by vendors inside cemeteries are prohibited; bring protection against heat and rain; do not bring deadly or bladed weapons, loudspeakers, and gambling paraphernalia; closely watch items brought inside cemeteries and make sure that lighted candles will not cause fires.

Remind children not to roam around, especially in crowded areas and have them wear or bring some identification; keep surroundings clean and bring own trash bag to put garbage in; know where the first aid stations and PNP assistance booths are in case of emergency or the need for police assistance; and if attending a wake, make sure the area is crime-free.

The PNP also urged the public to remember the BLOW BAGETS rule when traveling – battery, light, oil, water, brakes, air, gas, engine, tires and self.

Police said vehicle owners should make sure doors are locked and windows closed, especially if children are on board and avoid driving when drunk or sleepy.

The PNP also advised people taking public transport not to wear expensive jewelry or bring large amounts of money and watch their mobile phones.
“If you see a suspicious package, or someone acting suspiciously, notify authorities. Be wary of snatchers and petty thieves and report incidents to the nearest police assistance post,” the PNP said in its advisory. – With Non Alquitran