Davao Region cops ordered to stay alert vs. NPA

From the Philippine News Agency (Dec 14): Davao Region cops ordered to stay alert vs. NPA

The Police Regional Office in Region 11 (PRO-11) directed all its local units to remain vigilant against possible terrorist attacks from lawless elements--including the New People's Army, during the Yuletide season.

Chief Superintendent Marcelo Morales, PRO-11 director, pointed out on Friday that the NPA--the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP)--has threatened to launch attacks against government facilities as it marks its 50th founding anniversary.

Morales said the potential for NPA attacks remain high even if it declared earlier a unilateral ceasefire. NPA is listed as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.

“While everyone is busy enjoying the spirit of Christmas, lawless elements may take advantage of the situation and carry out their nefarious activities. The threats of terrorists and criminal groups or individuals can never be discounted,” the PRO-11 director said.

Morales said the Philippine National Police will intensify security measures under its “Ligtas Paskuhan 2018" operational guidelines and procedures.

“As the Filipinos mark on Sunday dawn, the first of nine Simbang Gabi (pre-dawn masses) on December 16, leading to Christmas Day, PRO-11 will increase police visibility on the streets and implement what it calls Ligtas Paskuhan 2018 that is designed to minimize crimes during this Christmas holiday season,” Morales said.

Morales said "Ligtas Paskuhan" involves police presence, focused law enforcement operations, target hardening measures, strengthening police-community partnership, and information dissemination.

He said the police will continue to intensify the campaign against loose firearms, illegal discharge of firearms, illegal drugs and campaign against criminals during the Christmas and New Year's celebrations.

Morales also reminded the general public on the strict implementation of the ban on firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices.

It has been more than 10 years since this city banned the firecracker explosion and use of pyrotechnics. The city also banned transport or shipment of firecrackers via Davao City.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1056705