The Manila Police District has announced a heightened alert status in connection with forthcoming 54th anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People Army on 26 December.

The directive came from MPD director P/Brig.Gen. Andre Dizon as he disclosed that they are deploying more police forces in the city to deter any attempt of the communist group to sow trouble in Manila.

Dizon said that all personnel will be on alert and will conduct 24-hour monitoring particularly in crowded areas like churches, malls and commercial establishments like Divisoria.

Meantime, the Philippine National Police said it has not detected security threats ahead of the communist group's anniversary.

"We do not see or receive any serious threats but we are not letting our guards down. We will intensify our security posture because we know that the communist insurgents continue to stage attacks at this time," said PNP public information office chief Col. Redrico Maranan.

Maranan said there is nothing new with the CPP threatening to conduct tactical offensives against state forces.

"The PNP is always ready in such situation, before the anniversary we are already on the highest alert, a full alert, and we are ready to thwart them and protect our citizens," Maranan said.

He reiterated that they will not issue any recommendations for a ceasefire or suspension of police operations against communist insurgents this holiday season, despite the passing of their founder Jose Maria "Joma" Sison.

He, meanwhile, added that they are looking at several persons who may possibly become the CPP's new leader.

"We are looking at personalities, if I am not mistaken around three or five. So far, I am not at liberty to disclose their names, we are still studying it," Maranan said.

To recall, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said it is supporting the police force in securing the holiday season against communist insurgents and other lawless elements.

"Rest assured that the AFP is ready with all its capabilities available to help the PNP suppress all forms of violence that may be initiated by any armed group. We are in unity with the Filipino people in its prayer and aspirations for a peaceful and meaningful celebration of the season," said AFP spokesperson Col. Medel Aguilar.

Sison died in The Netherlands on 16 December where he had been in self-exile.