Colorful Christmas lanterns illuminate busy Jose Abad Santos Avenue in the City of San Fernando.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF PAMPANGA PROVINCIAL INFORMATION OFFICE)
MABALACAT CITY, Pampanga – The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has deployed at least 3,300 police officers to secure the “Simbang Gabi” in Central Luzon.
In a statement Friday, Central Luzon police chief Brigadier General Matthew Baccay said police officers will also monitor transport terminals and man motorist assistance hubs along major roads in the region until the Feast of the Epiphany or “Three Kings Day” on January 6 next year.
“As early as December 16, 2021, Police Assistance Desks manned by almost 3,000 PNP personnel were put in place in full force to cover all transport terminals, business and commercial establishments and places of worship not only to ensure public safety and order, but also to provide public assistance to missing persons particularly children and elderly in collaboration with other agencies and volunteer organizations,” he said.
‘Simbang Gabi’ at Betis Church in Guagua, Pampanga (TONETTE OREJAS / INQUIRER file photo)
Baccay said the police officers are being assisted by force multipliers (anti-crime and volunteer groups).
He said the regional police is also closely monitoring the manufacture, distribution, sale and use of illegal firecrackers.