Security measures in place for New Year’s revelry – PNP

MANILA, Philippines — All security measures are in place to ensure people’s safety for the New Year’s Eve festivities on Saturday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said yesterday.

Just like the security coverage for Christmas, the Philippine National Police (PNP) fielded 192,950 or 85 percent of its 227,000 police officers across the country in places of convergence such as malls, airports, seaports and other transportation hubs.

“All preparations are set,” PNP public information office chief Col. Redrico Maranan said in a message.

The PNP has not monitored any serious threat to security for the entire Yuletide season.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), which is in charge of security in Metro Manila, deployed at least 1,369 police officers for the strict implementation of firecracker-related rules and regulations.

As part of their strategic deployment, NCRPO director Maj. Gen. Jonnel Estomo said police officers would be deployed to monitor designated firecracker zones.

Estomo, in a statement, reminded the public to follow the designated firecracker display zones and community display areas for everyone’s safety.

Police will coordinate with barangay and village peacekeepers to ensure proper enforcement of the order and apprehension of violators including sellers of illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices.

Estomo also warned gun owners and policemen not to use their firearms in celebrating New Year’s Eve or face the full force of the law.