MPD draws up plan for Labor Day rallies

MANILA, Philippines - The Manila Police District (MPD) has drafted an operation plan to prevent riots, terror threats and destabilization plots as the country marks Labor Day on May 1, an official said yesterday.

Chief Inspector Erwin Margarejo, MPD spokesman, said the plan is aimed at preventing unscrupulous persons from taking advantage of the rallies expected to be staged on May 1, though the MPD has not received reports of specific threats.

The MPD will activate on the eve of Labor Day “Task Group West,” headed by district director Chief Superintendent Alejandro Gutierrez, as a part of police security preparations.

Aside from pre-empting terror attacks, the MPD personnel will reinforce security in public places and vital installations in Manila as well as guard against criminals, he said.

The plan indicated that it is “for security and protection of Malacañang Palace against terrorist attacks, sabotage operations or through mass actions, demonstrations, (or) rallies,” he said.