Cops told: Beef up security during Lent, summer break

MANILA, Philippines - Police were ordered to implement a security plan for the lenten season and summer vacation.

Philippine National Police chief Director General Alan Purisima said the security plan would complement contingency measures for the elections.

Purisima noted that aside from the Holy Week, various town fiestas will be celebrated from the last week of March until May.

“Such events are expected to generate numerous commuters and tourists who will travel to the provinces and tourist destinations and these may cause peace and order concerns including traffic congestion, accidents and other crimes,” he said.

PNP director for operations Alex Paul Monteagudo said police assistance desks will be put up and road marshals deployed at convergence points, particularly  bus terminals, airports, seaports, train stations, recreational areas, highways,  major roads and crime prone areas to ensure maximum police presence.

Purisima also instructed all regional directors and  police units to coordinate with local government units, non-government organizations, government agencies and volunteer groups in establishing police assistance desks and centers and deploying road safety marshals.