PNP gearing up security preparations for New Year revelries

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is gearing up its security preparations for New Year revelries.

PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil yesterday ordered police officers nationwide to focus not only on maintaining peace and order during the revelries, but also on ensuring public safety.

Marbil reminded PNP members to be vigilant and proactive, particularly on potential risks associated with New Year celebrations such as fireworks, fire hazards and related accidents.

“Our responsibility goes beyond just enforcing peace and order – it extends to ensuring the safety of our fellow citizens,” he said in a statement.

While the New Year is a time of celebration, it is also important for police officers to be aware of the potential risks that may arise amid the merrymaking, according to the PNP chief.

He reminded police officers to also be ready to assist during fire incidents, accidents and other emergency cases, providing first aid when necessary, apart from performing their security functions.

Police mobile units must be equipped with fire safety devices and first aid kits to ensure PNP members can immediately give assistance.

“As we continue to protect and serve, let us ensure that we are fully prepared to address any situation, especially with the heightened activities during the holiday season,” Marbil said.

“Public safety is a shared responsibility, and our officers must be ready to respond swiftly and effectively,” he added.

The PNP has deployed at least 37,000 police officers nationwide as part of security measures for the holiday season.

Marbil encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to their nearest police stations.

Meanwhile, the PNP has monitored four stray bullet cases during the holiday season.

PNP public information officer Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo said three of the incidents occurred in Metro Manila, but no casualties or injuries were recorded.

The fourth case occurred in Zamboanga peninsula, where the victim was injured after being hit by a bullet.

In Pasig, the local government has designated 49 areas in the city as firecracker and pyrotechnic zones. Among these are open spaces along Sgt. Pascua Street, C5 and G. Salonga Street in Barangay Bagong Ilog and open spaces along A. Bonifacio Street in Barangay Bagong Katipunan.