PNP on terror alert on May 1

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is upgrading its alert level on Labor Day to ensure the safety of the public from criminal elements who may be planning to disrupt the holiday.

PNP chief Director General Oscar Calderon said that on the eve of Labor Day, the 120,000-strong police force will be on heightened alert nationwide to thwart any possible disturbances.

In Metro Manila, the police will be on full alert, as militant groups have lined up a series of anti-government actions – including street protests – to celebrate Labor Day.

"This is also to thwart possible attacks by terrorist groups who might take advantage of the mass actions," Calderon said.

Calderon has directed all his regional commanders to review and improve security preparations based on past experience.

He has tasked PNP Directorate for Operations chief Director Wilfredo Garcia with overseeing the implementation of the alert status to prevent the disruption of the normal operations of vital industries and transport.

"Commanders must also place all their Civil Disturbance Management (CMD) units on ground alert and ready for deployment anytime to augment the CDM units in the National Capital Region Police Office in case the peace and order situation worsens," Calderon said in his order to Garcia.

While preparing for the Labor Day celebration, Calderon, however, reminded his commanders not to overlook the PNP’s normal operations against criminal elements.

Meanwhile, Calderon downplayed any repeat of the bloody May 1, 2000 siege of Malacañang by supporters of detained former President Joseph Estrada.

He said support for Estrada has dwindled and it has become next to impossible for Estrada’s supporters to stage the same illegal activity on May 1.