CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga – Anticipating the influx of motorists for the summer vacation, the Central Luzon police mobilizes 5,000 policemen to ensure the safety of foreign and domestic tourists.
Dubbed as “Ligtas Summer Vacation (SUMVAC)”, policemen will be posted in places of convergence including airports, seaports and major bus terminals throughout Central Luzon seven provinces including Olongapo City and Angeles City starting next week.
Force multipliers will beef-up the security in resorts and in areas where foreign guests are expected to visit especially the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival in Lubao, Pampanga, the re-enactment of Jesus Christ crucifixion in City of San Fernando and Angeles City.
Supt. Fe Grenas, Chief of the Public Information Office (PIO) of the Central Luzon PNP, said traffic marshals will also be deployed along major road networks to assist and supervise traffic personnel and to ensure the smooth flow of vehicles especially in areas identified as chokepoints.
“We have mobilized our policemen even before the start of “Ligtas SUMVAC”,” said Grenas over the phone adding increase police presence will serve as a crime deterrent.
Chief Supt. Aaron Aquino, director Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3), said police visibility will be intensified through foot and mobile patrols. He said Police Assistance Desks have been prepositioned in strategic places.
“Almost half of region 3 PNP total strength will be seen on the streets to ensure safety of visitors and vacationers,” said Aquino.
Aquino directed all police units to coordinate with local government units (LGUs), non-government organizations (NGOs), and other government entities and volunteer groups in establishing assistance desks and deployment of Road Safety Marshalls for a collaborative and unified delivery of public safety services and assistance.
The Central Luzon police chief warned the public to observe precautionary measures as criminals may take advantage of the situation specifically in places of convergences including shopping complex, malls, recreational and entertainment parks.
Aquino encouraged the public to provide authorities relevant and timely information.