PNP tightens security for Christmas season

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police has stepped up security and visibility at ports, terminals and other transportation hubs nationwide amid the expected surge of holiday travelers, acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said yesterday.

Local police units have been directed to plan and adjust personnel deployment in major transport terminals to ensure the safe and orderly movement of passengers.

More than 100,000 police personnel have been deployed nationwide for the Christmas and New Year celebrations, higher than last year’s 60,000.

“Our security measures are in place, with regular adjustments based on the situation on the ground. We are seeing a noticeable increase in the number of people in terminals and along roads leading to transportation hubs. Police personnel and resources have been redeployed to ensure public safety,” Nartatez said.

He urged the public to observe travel rules and cooperate with authorities to prevent untoward incidents.

Police personnel will be on the ground around the clock to ensure safe travel of passengers as well as to secure business and residential areas during the Christmas season, according to Nartatez.