SPD beefs up security at churches

MANILA, Philippines - The Southern Police District (SPD) has beefed security at various churches in southern Metro Manila for the traditional nine-day simbang gabi or dawn masses, which start today.

SPD director Chief Superintendent Jose Erwin Villacorte said police assistance desks will be set up at major churches.

He said they will also place the entire police force under red alert starting Dec. 23 until Jan. 3, 2014.

Villacorte said vacation leaves of police personnel will be cancelled the for the entire Christmas season.

“For the first time in so many years, we will not allow our policemen to go on a vacation during Christmas holidays because it is their duty to provide security even in these times,” he said.

Villacorte said more police officers are needed during the Christmas season to intensify foot and mobile patrols in malls, churches, entertainment centers, transport terminals, markets and railway stations.