PNP deploys ‘secret cops’ during Christmas season

MANILA, Philippines — With more people expected to be out on the streets during the Yuletide season, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has deployed intelligence operatives to protect the public in areas of convergence.

PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said on Saturday secret operatives are constantly on the lookout for criminals who are planning to carry out their nefarious activities during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

“Aside from uniformed policemen, we also deployed secret cops – yung mga naka-civilian na mga intelligence operatives,” Fajardo said.

The PNP has deployed 6,000 tourism-oriented police officers in tourist destinations where people are expected to flock during the holiday season.

Fajardo said more police personnel would be fielded in shopping malls, markets, bazaars and other commercial establishments.

For instance, Fajardo cited Divisoria in Manila where there are an average of 500,000 shoppers during weekends.

According to Fajardo, the number is expected to double starting Dec. 20.

“We deployed additional police personnel in Divisoria to ensure the security of shoppers,” she said.

Starting Dec. 15, police officers would not be allowed to go on leave except for emergencies to sustain maximum police presence in public areas.