PNP deploys over 7,000 personnel amid 2-day transport strike

The Philippine National Police has deployed more than 7,000 personnel across Metro Manila to maintain peace and order during the two-day transport strike led by transport group MANIBELA.

PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Monday that police units would implement security measures similar to those used during previous transport strikes and other mass activities in Metro Manila and key urban areas.

Nartatez directed police offices to deploy sufficient personnel and resources to maintain public safety and minimize disruption to motorists and commuters.

Police chiefs and territorial units were also ordered to coordinate with local government units and other government agencies to assist stranded commuters.

“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 said 11 drone operators were deployed to monitor protest activities, 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 posted at fixed visibility points.

MANIBELA launched the two-day strike Monday to protest continuing increases in fuel prices.

Police said personnel would remain deployed in areas where protest activities are expected to ensure public safety and maintain order.

The transport strike is scheduled to end Tuesday, 15 September.