PNP revs up anti-crime drive in runup to holidays

MANILA, Philippines - With only 46 days before Christmas, the Philippine National Police (PNP) intensified its campaign against all forms of crime as people start their Christmas shopping.

PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa ordered all police nationwide to help ensure hassle-free holidays.

Verzosa said the PNP is intensifying its implementation of preventive anti-crime measures to curb the project rise in crimes against properties during the last quarter of the year.

In Calabarzon, Southern Tagalog Police director Chief Superintendent Perfecto Palad directed all provincial directors in the area to enforce the measures to address crimes and ensure immediate police response in this coming Yuletide season.

“Crimes against property may rise and (we) will stringently implement the PNP’s anti-criminality strategies such as public education and information drive via advisories and tips on safety and security,” he said.

Palad added that they are also conducting intelligence operations against robbery and theft groups and reviving regional, provincial, city and municipal anti-crime action plans to address these crimes at the local levels.

He ordered the implementation of an integrated patrol system, Oplan “Night Watch,” Oplan “Sita,” the establishment of Barangay Peace-keeping Action Teams (BPATs), and community visitation and dialogue.

“Police will ensure strict enforcement of preventive measures against crimes, and with the active participation of the community we will achieve a safe and peaceful yuletide season,” Palad said. – Cecille Suerte Felipe