MANILA, Philippines - A day after the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, the Philippine National Police (PNP) is now shifting its focus on preparations for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
The PNP has placed the entire country on full alert since last week as part of security measures for the elections.
Director Benjamin Belarmino, PNP deputy chief for operations, said the police leadership is thinking of lowering the alert level within the week to give policemen time to relax before going on full alert status for the coming holiday.
Belarmino pointed out that police regional and provincial commanders were given the prerogative to assess or downgrade the level of alertness in their respective areas of responsibility.
He said the policemen will be given the chance to rest before going on full alert duty again for All Saints’ Day.
Police authorities said similar security templates will be observed during the holiday but the focus of policemen will be in cemeteries.
Police visibility will be improved in those areas since police presence has been proven to be an effective deterrent to crime.
Authorities said re-routing will be coordinated with the local government units to avoid monstrous traffic jams during the holiday.
National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO) director Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome said they would maximize the deployment of police personnel in cemeteries to prevent the entry of handguns, bladed weapons, liquor and other intoxicating drinks.
He said the NCRPO will also tap barangay officials and other communication groups as force multipliers to secure bus terminals and prevent petty crimes.
Revilla wants increased police visibility
Meanwhile, Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr. yesterday called on the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Philippine Coast Guard to put up assistance units in provincial bus terminals and key ports to ensure the safety and comfortable travel of passengers who will mark All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day this weekend.
Revilla, chairman of the Senate committees on public works and public services, also urged the LTO to make public the list of provincial bus lines which were given special permits to operate during the “Undas,” to deter passengers from riding “colorum” or unregistered buses.
Due to the high demand for public transportation during this season, the senator noted that many unscrupulous bus operators take advantage of the influx of passengers by picking them up and ply outside their routes without special permit.
Revilla also noted that there should be increased police visibility in areas where people converge especially bus stations.
He lauded the LTO for undertaking inspection of utility vehicles’ roadworthiness to ensure safety.
He said the LTO should augment its personnel not just for inspection but also to provide assistance to travelers. – With Christina Mendez, Non Alquitran