Baguio police readies security tact for summer

MANILA, Philippines - Anticipating an influx of local and foreign tourists in Baguio City, the Summer Capital of the country, the Cordillera police will implement a project dubbed as “Implan Bantay Lakbay 2009” to secure them and residents, alike.

Cordillera police director Chief Superintendent Orlando Pestaño said the project will be implemented by the Baguio City Police Office and various civic and non-government organizations and other government enforcement units as an integral part of the city’s summer vacation preparation.

“The purpose of this implementing plan is to intensify security measures and other security-related activities in our area of responsibility in order to ensure that the citizenry are spared from criminality and terrorism, as well as to keep order in major thoroughfares during the summer vacation, the Lenten season, Flores de Mayo, and others that attract local and foreign tourists,” said Pestaño.

Pestaño said Senior Superintendent Wilfredo Franco, Baguio City police chief will coordinate with other government agencies involved in implementing the security plan.

“During the period we have to undertake public safety services and provide assistance to motorists, commuters, and the general public,” said Franco.

The Baguio City police, he said, will conduct intensified motorized security, beat patrols, and traffic management to ensure the safe travel of tourists and local commuters along the main roads and land transport terminals.       – Non Alquitran