PNP steps up police presence for ‘Misa de Gallo’

DAWN MASS People attend the first of nine dawn Masses at San Dionisio Chapel in Parañaque City, on the outskirts of Manila in this picture taken Dec. 16, 2012, to signal the start of the Christmas season The tradition of dawnMasses dates back to the Spanish era. The Philippines ismore than 70 percent Catholic. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines–The Philippine National Police will step up its police presence when the Christmas season officially begins today with the traditional nine-day “Simbang Gabi” (dawn Masses).

PNP Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina said the PNP would implement “Ligtas Paskuhan 2014” before, during and after the holidays, or until after the New Year.

“I remind all police commanders of the operational guidelines to be undertaken in maintaining order, law enforcement and public safety during the holidays,” he said in a statement.

The PNP will deploy more foot and mobile patrols and route safety marshals in places where people gather. Police assistance centers will be set up as well.

Espina said “Ligtas Paskuhan 2014” was intended to cope with the influx of people in shopping malls, churches, transport terminals and other public places.

He said the PNP would also continue with its campaign against criminal gangs and loose firearms, and step up the implementation of laws on illegal manufacture and sale of firecrackers and pyrotechnics.–Julie M. Aurelio