PNP ready for today’s start of classes

CEBU, Philippines - To help secure students and parents, at least two policemen will guard the premises of each school in Cebu City for today’s opening of classes.

Cebu City Police Office Acting Director Mariano Natu-el,  Jr. said they will also distribute flyers that contain precautionary measures for students, teachers, and women, considering that crimes usually increase during the start of classes.

 â€œMu-increase g’yud ang petty crimes kay basta daghang tawo, mu-camouflage ang criminals. Paborito nila ni basta daghang tawo. That’s why we’re fielding more beat personnel sa crowded areas,” said Natu-el.

With this, the CCPO head warned students and parents to be extra careful and vigilant.

He also tasked the station commanders and heads of the different special units under CCPO to establish their respective Police Action Centers where the public can immediately ask for help in cases of emergency.

The City Traffic Operations Management (CITOM) will also be fielding more traffic enforcers in major thoroughfares as traffic congestion is expected today.

Natu-el also said aside from schools, beat personnel are also deployed in bus terminals, commercial establishments and busy streets in the city.

The Cebu Provincial Police Office also assured that they are prepared for today’s first day of classes.

Deputy Provincial Director for Administration, Supt. Glenn Candelario Ares said that Community Assistance Centers have been set up in different schools.

Policemen in civilian attire will also be deployed in schools in Metro Cebu areas.

“We have directives to all chiefs of police to put up sign boards near schools to slow down vehicles,” Ares said in a phone interview.

In order to maximize the manpower of the PNP, checkpoints are transferredin strategic areas near schools so police can help in monitoring children coming in and out of the school premises.

Ares added they have coordinated with the school heads and suggested to have medical personnel and radio communicators on standby.

Meanwhile, CCPO will distribute school supplies to 500 students in Mabolo Elementary School this morning as a way to help school children.

Natu-el said notebooks, crayons, writing pads, pencils and envelopes were bought using donations and contributions from CCPO personnel. — (FREEMAN)