The Philippine National Police (PNP) has canceled work suspensions for over 106,000 officers to ensure full security coverage for Labor Day demonstrations across the archipelago.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. announced that the entire force is prepared to maintain peace and order on Friday, May 1, describing the mobilization as a necessary sacrifice for national stability.
“To our officers on the ground, we honor your sacrifice as you serve the nation on Labor Day. You are the shield of our democracy. Perform your duties with pride, remain professional under pressure, and remember that our primary mission is to keep every Filipino safe,” Nartatez said.
A nationwide heightened alert status will be in effect from 12:01 a.m. on April 30 through 12:01 a.m. on May 2. The deployment includes specialized units and standby forces tasked with monitoring mass actions and neutralizing potential security risks.
Nartatez clarified that the heavy police presence is intended to protect both the participants of the rallies and the general public. To ensure transparency and accountability, Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) units will be equipped with body-worn cameras to document all interactions with mobilization groups.
Additionally, the PNP Intelligence Group has been ordered to coordinate closely with local government units to screen for outside agitators who might attempt to hijack peaceful worker demonstrations.
Despite the high alert level, the PNP chief noted that there are currently no monitored credible threats to the celebration.
“The PNP is on heightened alert not to suppress, but to secure. We are here to ensure that Labor Day remains a peaceful celebration for the workers who are the backbone of our nation,” Nartatez stated.
While affirming the public’s right to gather, the General warned that lawlessness would not be overlooked.
“We respect the right to peaceful assembly but we will not tolerate any acts of violence or lawlessness. Our directive is clear, exercise maximum tolerance while maintaining the rule of law,” he concluded.