PNP steps up security for Independence Day celebrations

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) is stepping up security preparations around the country ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on June 12 out of concerns of a possible attack by local terrorist elements linked to Al-Qaida.

PNP Director General Raul M Bacalzo said Special Action Forces and Regional Public Safety Battalions, along with other tactical police units, would be tapped to secure simultaneous activities observing the 113th year of the country’s independence.

“I have already directed all troops to be always alert and thwart possible terrorist attacks in the aftermath of the death of Al-Qaida leader Osama Bin Laden,” Bacalzo said in a statement.

Bin Laden was killed by US forces in Pakistan early this month, prompting the raising of alert levels in many countries for possible retaliatory attacks. The group is believed to have ties to regional and local terrorist organizations operating in the Philippines.

“The PNP will deploy all necessary security forces in order to ensure a safe and orderly conduct of the annual Independence Day celebrations,” Bacalzo said.

Bacalzo also directed all regional directors, provincial directors and chiefs of police to strengthen police visibility and intensify checkpoint operations and mobile and foot patrol in accordance with the “Police Integrated Patrol System.”

PNP spokesperson Agrimero Cruz said that the system contributed to the decline of crimes by double-digits in 2010 and in the first quarter of 2011.

All police regional offices are also directed to deploy Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) contingents in all places where Independence Day programs and activities would be held, Cruz said.

On May 28, the Philippine National Flag Day or “Araw ng Watawat” kicked off the Independence Day ceremonies leading to the main celebration on June 12. President Aquino is expected at the ceremony at Rizal Park in Manila.

Simultaneous celebratory events shall also be held in historical places such as the Gen. Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite, Barasoain Church, Malolos City, Bulacan, Mausoleo de los Veteranos dela Revolucion, Manila North Cemetery, Gat Andres Bonifacio Monument, Caloocan City, Pinaglaban Memorial Shrine in San Juan City and the Pamintuan Mansion in Angeles City.

Similar programs and activities, including a jobs and livelihood fair, will be held in cities and towns all over the country.

The PNP will showcase its frontline services, accomplishments, plans and programs during the Civic Military Parade on June 12 at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, as well as put up a booth for the trade fair and exhibits.

It will also provide bands and ceremonial elements at the Pamintuan Mansion in Angeles City and at the Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan City.

Police personnel will be deployed to direct traffic and assist the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority in assisting those who will join the celebrations and to direct commuters to re-routing highways to avoid traffic during the celebration.