MANILA, Philippines — Nearly 60,000 police officers will be deployed nationwide to ensure public safety on Labor Day (May 1), the Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Sunday.
PNP chief Gen. Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. assured that deploying 59,587 police personnel will be enough to maintain peace and order in all areas of engagement.
“The PNP will assist in all lawful and peaceful activities in commemoration of Labor Day,” Acorda said in a statement.
He added that the police force also sought the assistance of other government agencies in ensuring public safety during Labor Day activities.
Acorda reminded the public to remain vigilant “as some groups may take advantage of the situation to foment chaos and violence.”
He likewise urged the people “to cooperate with the authorities and follow the security protocols during the event.”
Acorda also reminded police officers who will be deployed to follow the policy of maximum tolerance, respect for human rights, and adherence to police operational procedures.
“The PNP will also be strictly implementing the operational guidelines to effectively cover various aspects of police operations, including traffic management, civil disturbance management, anti-criminality, and counter-terrorism,” he said.