WITH the ‘-ber’ months now underway, the National Police (PNP) Chief, Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., on Wednesday directed police units nationwide to step up presence and patrols in areas expected to draw larger crowds as the country transitions into its traditional long Christmas season.
In line with this, Nartatez ordered regional and city police offices to heighten police visibility, patrols, and monitoring in commercial establishments, transport terminals, markets, and other public places where people are expected to converge.
‘I have directed police units to strengthen visibility, patrols and monitoring in areas where people are expected to converge, particularly commercial establishments, transport terminals, markets, and other public places. Our priority is to prevent crimes before they happen and ensure a safe and peaceful holiday season,’ Nartatez said.
The ‘-ber’ months started on September 1, kicking off the Philippines’ long Christmas season when shopping, travel, family gatherings and other holiday activities are expected to increase.
Nartatez called on the public to remain alert against crimes that could take advantage of increased consumer activity, cash transactions, and travel.
‘The public should remain vigilant against theft, robbery, scams, and other crimes that may take advantage of increased shopping, cash transactions, and travel during the holiday season. We also remind everyone to secure their belongings, avoid sharing real-time locations online, and immediately report suspicious activities to the police,’ he said.
The PNP will also increase patrols in crime-prone areas and communities where holiday activities are expected to increase.
Police units are likewise expected to maintain close coordination with local authorities and other stakeholders to address emerging security concerns.
Nartatez said the police and the public must work together to keep communities safe throughout the Yuletide Season.
‘We want the people to enjoy the Christmas season with their families, but we also ask everyone to remain alert and take simple precautions. Crime prevention is a shared responsibility between the police and the community,’ he said.