TACLOBAN CITY – The Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) will be placed on heightened alert status to ensure maximum preparedness and responsiveness for the Yuletide Season.
PRO-8 bared its comprehensive preparations for Ligtas Paskuhan 2024 from December 16, 2024, to January 6, 2025, as it expects an increase in travelers, including returning Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and residents of the National Capital Region (NCR) heading to their hometowns.
Brig. General Jay Cumigad, PRO-8 Regional Director, said the surge is expected to cause congestion on roads, transportation hubs, airports, and seaports. More than 2,000 personnel from PRO-8, along with 569 personnel from augmentation units and 706 members of advocacy groups will be deployed to secure key areas such as places of worship, major thoroughfares, transportation terminals, commercial centers, and other public gathering spots.
Additionally, New Year celebrations often include fireworks and firecrackers, which can pose safety risks if mishandled. Over 2,500 PRO-8 personnel will be stationed, supported by 687 augmentation units and 854 advocacy groups in areas designated for Community Fireworks Displays (CFDs) and Firecracker Zones (FZAs).
Cumigad said that PRO-8 will implement enhanced anti-criminality measures and public safety services in close coordination with various government agencies, Local Government Units (LGUs), and other stakeholders.
“We are dedicated to making sure everyone has a peaceful and safe holiday season,” Cumigad shared, adding, “Through Ligtas Paskuhan 2024, we will intensify our efforts to secure key areas, prevent criminal activities, and respond swiftly to any security threat.”
He also urges the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to help them make the season joyful and safe for everyone. (By Marie Tonette Marticio / EV Mail December 16-22, 2024 issue)
