PNP on alert as Christmas rush starts

The Philippine National Police (PNP) placed all units on high alert Sunday as millions of travelers began heading to provinces for the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. ordered more than 100,000 officers to be deployed nationwide to secure transport hubs, major roads and residential areas.

The deployment is a significant increase from the 60,000 officers assigned during the same period last year.

Nartatez instructed local commanders to increase police visibility at seaports, bus terminals and airports to manage the expected surge of passengers and ensure orderly movement.

"I have directed our local police units to strategize the deployment of personnel in ports and terminals to increase police presence in these public areas," Nartatez said in a statement.

He also cited that security measures would be adjusted based on real-time conditions as crowds continue to grow at transportation hubs and on roads leading out of major cities.

"Our personnel will be on duty 24/7 to ensure safe travel and maintain security throughout the Christmas season," Nartatez said.