8,412 cops deployed to ensure public safety on Eid’l Fitr
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed over 8,000 personnel to ensure public safety as the country observes Eid’l Fitr, or the Festival of Breaking the Fast, on Wednesday.
PNP spokesperson Jean Fajardo told INQUIRER.net that they dispatched 8,412 personnel to transportation hubs, mosques, and Islamic communities for the Islamic holiday, which marks the end of the month-long fasting of Ramadan.
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“As we commemorate this sacred occasion, the PNP is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. Additional personnel have been deployed to areas with significant Muslim populations to ensure the smooth conduct of festivities and provide assistance as needed,” the police organization said in a separate statement sent to reporters.
Moreover, the PNP encouraged the public to celebrate Eid Fitr with “respect, understanding, and unity, embracing the values of compassion, tolerance, and solidarity” and to remain vigilant on potential threats amid the occasion.
“Let us come together to promote harmony and goodwill in society. We urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement authorities to prevent potential incidents,” the PNP said.
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For his part, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. urged devout Muslims and the public “to commit to carrying on the virtues of Ramadan” such as “willpower, compassion, patience, generosity, and gratitude.”
“And may the teachings of Islam as a religion of peace be alive in you throughout the year. Let us harness unity in diversity for an inclusively progressive Bagong Pilipinas,” Abalos added.
