MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is ready to maintain peace and order during the two-day transport strike that started Monday, with over 7,000 police personnel deployed across the National Capital Region (NCR).
In a statement, the PNP said police units would implement security measures similar to those used during previous transport strikes and other mass activities in Metro Manila and other key urban areas.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed concerned police offices to deploy sufficient personnel and resources to maintain public safety and minimize disruption to road users.
He likewise ordered police chiefs and other territorial units to coordinate with local government units and other agencies to assist commuters who may be stranded.
“We understand the concerns raised by the transport group on this particular issue. Just like all the other motorists, we in the PNP are also affected by the oil price increase,” Nartatez said.
“But we have a mandate to perform, an obligation to ensure peace, order and safety for everybody at all times. We respect your right to hold transport strike, we expect the same for our personnel on the ground who were tasked to ensure public order and safety,” he added.
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) meanwhile, deployed more than 7,000 personnel for security operations during the strike organized by transport group Manibela.
Data provided by the NCRPO showed that 11 drone operators were deployed for protest monitoring, along with 302 personnel from the Reactionary Standby Support Force and 491 personnel assigned to civil disturbance management. Another 1,306 personnel were placed on standby.
The NCRPO also deployed 126 personnel for traffic assistance, 457 for checkpoint operations and 355 for border control points.
For visibility and patrol operations, 1,542 personnel were assigned to foot patrols, 1,344 to mobile patrols and 1,068 to motorcycle patrols. Another 635 personnel were assigned to fixed visibility posts.
Manibela launched the strike to protest continuing increases in oil prices. Protest activities are expected in several areas, prompting police to deploy personnel to maintain order and public safety.
