QCPD to deploy 'tourist cops'

MANILA, Philippines – The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) today launched its tourist police program at the Gateway Mall at the Araneta Business Center in Cubao, Quezon City.

Chief Superintendent Benjardi Mantele, QCPD head, said an initial 40 tourist policemen will patrol the identified six tourist destinations in the city.

"Aside from being mentally and physically fit, they (cops) should also be proficient in the English language to be able to effectively serve our foreign tourists," Mantele said.

Included as tourists spots in Quezon City are the Morato area, Araneta Center, Libis and the Eco-park in Fairview.

Mantele said the bikes that would be used in their patrol have been donated by the Araneta Business Association.

Senior Superintendent Benjamin Magalong, head of the QCPD operations, said the formation of the tourist police stemmed from the letter of instruction from the Philippine National Police leadership for the establishment of the special unit to protect and serve both foreign and local tourists.