PNP forms papal visit task force
MANILA, Philippines—The Philippine National Police (PNP) has created a task force to ensure the safety of Pope Francis when he visits the country in January next year.
The PNP has created the Special Task Force “Papal Visit 2015” to provide “extensive security coverage and other public safety services.
PNP Chief Director General Alan Purisima has designated Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina to head the task force and mobilize all government agencies involve.
“Extensive security coverage and other public safety services will be undertaken in all areas of engagements and its adjacent areas during the Papal Visit. It is imperative that the security and safety of the Pope be given utmost priority,” Purisima said.
He said Espina would provide strategic direction, monitor and supervise the operations of PNP units that will compose the different task groups in the different venues.
“The PNP will also provide operational support to the Presidential Security Group (PSG) which is tasked to provide close-in security and safety services to the Pope and his entourage,” he said.
“Sustained anti-criminality and internal security operations in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies and concerned local government units are also being conducted,” the police official added.
Purisima is a member of the multi-agency Papal Visit-National Organizing Committee, which coordinates all plans and activities, maintains peace and order, and safeguards participants during various religious activities.
“This includes public safety assistance necessary for order maintenance and police services for crowd control, vehicular and pedestrian traffic direction and route, parking and venue security,” he said.
Meanwhile, Police Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor, PNP spokesman said, the police preparation for the papal visit is in coordination with all concerned government agencies.
“This is a whole government approach. The PNP concern is security,” Mayor said.
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