The Philippine National Police (PNP) said it will strengthen police visibility in transport hubs, major roads, and public areas amid the expected surge of travelers for New Year celebrations.
Acting PNP Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said additional police units will be deployed in bus terminals, airports, and seaports to manage the influx of passengers heading back to their provinces during the long holiday break.
“We expect another influx of passengers for the New Year celebration, especially that there will be a long holiday break. Our goal is to maintain police visibility for them to feel safe from the bus terminals, to the major thoroughfares and to their destinations,” Nartatez said.
He added that visible police presence also ensures immediate assistance when needed.
“The mere presence of our personnel on the ground already serves as an assurance to our kababayan that assistance will be there in case of any eventuality,” he said.
The PNP earlier announced that more than 100,000 police personnel will be deployed nationwide during the holiday season, up from 60,000 last year. This comes as Malacañang suspended work in government offices on December 29 and early January, contributing to heavier travel volume.
Nartatez also reminded travelers to follow rules in terminals to avoid delays, while police officers were directed to assist other agencies in inspecting passenger buses and checking the physical and mental readiness of drivers to ensure safe travel.