Police note increase in protocol violators

CEBU, Philippines — Despite strict implementation of the health protocols amid spike in the number of COVID-19 cases, police have observed an increase in the number of protocol violators in Cebu City.

Lt. Col. Wilbert Parilla, deputy city director for operations of Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), said on Thursday evening alone they have apprehended 220 violators. Of the total number, 191 were adults and 29 were minors.

Most of them were apprehended for violating the curfew ordinance (153) while the others were caught not wearing a face mask.

"Medyo ni relax na sad atong katawhan, considering nga medyo wala na sad kaayo nato na implement for the past nga mga buwan, ilabi na gyud nga pagkahuman sa Typhoon Odette, wala na kaayo nata nag-focus on the Bulabog," Parilla said.

He said the CCPO has re-intensified the implementation of the health protocols following the latest surge in COVID-19 cases. This is to minimize the movement of the public and help combat the spread of the virus, especially the new variant—Omicron.

"Considering nga mitaas na sad (COVID-19 cases) so ato na sad… atong gibalik nga cases sa Oplan Bulabog," said Parilla.

CCPO recently received 114 augmentation personnel from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB-7) to help them intensify the conduct of “Oplan Bulabog.” The augmentation personnel were downloaded to the 11 police stations in the city.

"At the same time mao ni atong i-focus sa Bulabog nga mag conduct ni sila og operations 24/7…so balik nasad ta, istrikto nasad atong mga pagpatuman," said Parilla.

Starting last night, police conducted a massive rekorida around the city to remind the public as well as business establishments that curfew starts at 11 p.m.

Those who will be found on the streets within the curfew hours will be apprehended.

"Right after sa curfew, we will make apprehensions na," said Parila. — FPL (FREEMAN)