Heightened security at transport hubs

Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., directed the entire police force to maintain enhanced security measures and increased police visibility at all transport hubs – airports, seaports, bus terminals, etc. – across the country during the traditional Christmas holiday travel exodus.

A nationwide deployment of more than 100,000 police officials – higher than last year’s deployment of 60,000 – intends to provide sufficient security coverage for transport terminals, major roads, and other crowded areas.

Nartatez said local police units were told to carefully plan and adjust the deployment of personnel in major transport hubs during the expected surge of travelers.

He said, “I have directed our local police units to strategize the deployment of personnel in ports and terminals to increase police presence in these public areas.”

“Our security measures are in place, and part of them is the regular adjustments based on the situation on the ground. As expected, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of people in the terminals and the roads leading to transportation hubs, and we have been directing our personnel and resources in these areas to ensure public safety,” he added.

Nartatez reminded the public to follow rules and be vigilant while traveling and to cooperate with authorities to help prevent untoward incidents.

He said, “Our police personnel will be on the ground 24/7 not only to ensure their safe travel but also to secure business and residential areas during the entire Christmas season.”