Sunday 2 papal events ‘generally peaceful’ – Espina

MANILA, Philippines – The Mass celebrated by Pope Francis at Luneta and the meeting with the youth at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) on Sunday were “generally peaceful.”

Police Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina said stepped-up police security operations were sustained to maintain law and order in two major events that highlighted the visit of Pope Francis in the Philippines.

“The sheer volume of pilgrims that poured into the events at UST and Luneta on Sunday prompted the PNP to make some adjustments in security procedures to meet contingencies,” Espina said.

Millions trooped to Luneta and UST, and Espina commended the pilgrims for their cooperation and support for security measures imposed by authorities.

On crime situation, Espina said there were minor ones recorded by police.

According to the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), six million people trooped to Luneta for the Mass celebrated by Pope Francis.

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