PNP welcomes proposal to boost security in Metro Manila during big events

PNP spokesperson Chief Supt. Generoso Cerbo Jr. INQUIRER.NET FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Wednesday it is welcoming Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) idea to consider the security aspect prior to approving permits for special public events in the wake of the Boston Marathon blasts that killed three people and injured over a hundred.

“Wini-welcome ’yan ng PNP. Lalong-lalo na sa level ng NCRPO (National Capital Region Police Office). Kasi . . mae-enhance [nito] ang level ng security sa Metro Manila, lalo na kung meron tayong special events,” Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr., PNP spokesman, told reporters.

(PNP welcomes that proposal, especially in the level of NCRPO. This would enhance the level of security in Metro Manila, especially during special events.)

In a television interview, MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino earlier said the agency will have to review its rules in approving permits for marathons and other similar events, taking into consideration that coordination with the PNP in laying out security details for an event should be improved.

Cerbo said the idea is good since it would give emphasis on the security aspect, but added that providing security to such events is already automatic for the PNP.

He said the PNP has always been ready, and the Boston bombings have spurred the force to be more vigilant.

He said authorities are continuously conducting intelligence gathering to monitor threat groups such as the Abu Sayyaf group and the New People’s Army.