PNP steps up holiday security

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up security patrols around churches across the country at the start of “Simbang Gabi” (dawn Masses) Friday morning to ensure the safety of churchgoers.

PNP Director General Nicanor A. Bartolome inspected several Metro Manila churches to personally assess the implementation of the Police Integrated Patrol System (PIPS) in church areas where parishioners gather to attend the traditional nine-day Masses.

The PNP chief earlier ordered all police regional directors to strengthen operations of the PIPS and maximize police visibility around churches and other crowded places.

Bartolome also instructed field unit commanders to deploy mobile patrol units with blinkers turned on to establish police presence. Officials said this was known to be an effective deterrent to crime.

Local police units were reminded to be on the lookout for criminal elements engaged in street crimes such as robbery, theft, burglary, mugging, swindling and those engaging in gang wars.

They were instructed to coordinate closely with barangay (village) authorities to muster support from village watchmen and citizen volunteers.

PNP spokesperson Chief Supt. Agrimero Cruz Jr. said members of the PNP Command Group and Directorial Staff would also conduct unannounced inspections to ensure officers’ compliance to the instructions.