PNP sets up ‘neighborhood watch’ amid expected ‘Undas’ exodus
A woman visits her loved one’s tomb at Manila South Cemetery in Makati City at the crack of dawn. NIÑO JESUS ORBETA / INQUIRER FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines–Metro Manila police has created “neighborhood watch” patrol teams as thousands of people are expected flock to cemeteries on the coming All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Senior Superintendent Wilben Mayor, Philippine National Police spokesperson, said on Wednesday the neighborhood watch groups composed of police and barangay (village) authorities will provide security to homes left unattended by vacationing residents.
“The PNP is taking into consideration the expected traditional exodus of city residents to the provinces mostly by overland transportation and also by sea and air to and from the island provinces,” Mayor said.
He also encouraged motorists and commuters to plan ahead their travel as preventive action against criminal elements who might take advantage of their unattended homes.
Police Assistance Centers (PAC) will also be put up on major thoroughfares and highways for emergency road assistance.
”PACs will also be established in land, sea and air transportation terminals, piers, and airports to facilitate smooth and orderly security checks, boarding, and disembarkation,” he said.
The PNP will deploy 41,602 additional personnel from 17 regional police offices nationwide as part of its security measures for the weekend.
The policemen will be assisted by 57,266 force multipliers from the local government sector.
Of the 57,266, 29,100 are barangay officials and members of Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams, 15,229 are private security guards, and 12,937 are civilian volunteers.
The barangay authorities, security guards and volunteers will deployed in cemeteries, memorial parks, bus terminals, sea ports, airports, major tourist destinations, vital installations, churches and travel routes.
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