JTF chief Binag says social distancing patrols deployed in public areas

Joint Task Force COVID Shield commander Police Lieutenant General Cesar Hawthorne Binag on Friday said social distancing patrols, armed with yantok, have been deployed in public areas in Metro Manila to ensure that minimum health standards are still being observed.

At a Laging Handa press briefing, Binag said the number of police officers deployed in public markets, malls, churches, terminals and ports  have been doubled.

"'Yun 'yung mga areas na pinag-usapan namin kanina at dinoble ng ating kapulisan sa tulong ng ating kasundaluhan ang deployment namin dito para 'yung visibility. Mayroon pa kaming tinawag na social distancing patrol," Binag said.

"Ito 'yung inutos sa atin ng Chief PNP si General (Debold) Sinas. May hawak na yantok 'yan, isang metro 'yan pangsaway tapos panukat, pamalo na rin doon sa matitigas ang ulo," he added.

This came amid reports about the situation in Divisoria showing that social distancing was not observed by shoppers. Mayor Isko Moreno has been reminding the public to be cautious as the threat of COVID-19 remains.

Binag said chiefs of police are also tasked to coordinate with the management of establishments such as shopping centers to ensure the enforcement of health protocols in malls, especially this holiday season.

He added that the police would also talk to church officials regarding the Simbang Gabi.—AOL/RSJ, GMA News