Calabarzon police beefs up operations for summer

MANILA, Philippines—The Southern Tagalog police is beefing up its security measures for the summer vacation, a police official said Thursday.

Calabarzon police director Chief Superintendent Samuel Pagdilao Jr. said that he ordered all police units in the Southern Tagalog region to strengthen their public safety and security operations for the onslaught of travellers during the summer vacation and the Lenten Season (April 17-24).

Heavy traffic and possible accidents along major roads are being anticipated by the police, said Pagdilao adding that criminals have been known to use this time “to carry-out their nefarious operations.”

The police director said that he has directed commanders “to review and update the security and traffic plans based on our experiences, undertake the necessary preparations and coordination and encourage active involvement of concerned government agencies and non-government organizations.” He added that they plan to increase police visibility by setting up patrol, checkpoint operations, as well as police assistance centers in several strategic locations.

Lawmen will also check public transport terminals, malls, resorts and places of worship, he stated.

“While we concentrate on public protection and assistance, we are also mindful that terrorist groups and communist insurgents may take advantage of the occasion and it is in this light that we are closely coordinating our activities with the Armed Forces of the Philippines,” Pagdilao said.