PNP reminds malls: 'No costumes for security guards'

MANILA, Philippines — Security guards are barred from wearing costumes while on duty, the Philippine National Police-Supervisory Office on Security and Investigation Agency (PNP-SOSIA) warned yesterday.

The SOSIA issued the reminder after the security administrator of a shopping mall in Quezon City was accosted last Sunday for allowing guards to wear costumes instead of their prescribed uniforms.

The security agency hired by the mall was fined P400,000 for violating a directive by Civil Security Group director Chief Superintendent Reynaldo Biay and SOSIA head Chief Superintendent Reczon Acabado on Sept. 10 and for other offenses, such as failing to renew the licenses of the guards’ service firearms.

Superintendent Jaime Santos, who heads SOSIA’s enforcement management division, said yesterday the practice of guards wearing costumes during special events such as Halloween and Christmas poses a security risk.

He said criminals could easily replicate the outfits worn by guards, blend with the mallgoers and attack stores.

Santos said themed costumes could lead to confusion among mallgoers during emergencies such as an earthquake or fire.

Santos reminded security agencies to follow the directive or face hefty fines and possible suspension of their licenses.

“This is being implemented all year round,” he said.