PNP returns to normal alert status after May polls, Holy Week

The Philippine National Police on Tuesday announced the downgrading of its nationwide alert status from full alert to normal following the conduct of the May 2019 midterm elections, the Holy Week, and other major events.

The PNP, however, said the downgrading does not cover Mindanao due to the on-going enforcement of martial law.

Despite the return to normal alert status, PNP chief Police General Oscar Albayalde said the regional directors of Regions 1 and 8, Cordillera, and the National Capital Region can raise the alert level on their own depending on the security situation.

“Our police force will continue to be aggressive and intelligence-driven against criminal gangs, terrorists, and lawless elements as we intensify our focused police operations to address threats and violence,” Albayalde said in a press statement.

School opening

Meanwhile, Albayalde said the PNP will deploy a total of 120,000 personnel nationwide to aid security and safety preparations for the opening of classes on June 3.

"We set our plans with enough number of police force to be deployed to launch mobile and foot patrols along major routes and highways for the 2019 Balik Eskwela leading to all schools and other learning institutions," the PNP chief said.

Among these efforts include the establishment of police assistance desks (PAD) in school campuses and other learning institutions.

Abayalde said the PNP will coordinate with the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, school authorities, local government units, and barangay force multipliers on the possible location of the PADs.

He added police personnel may inspect dormitories and schools upon invitation.

Albayalde said authorities will also monitor incidents of bullying, kidnapping, improvised explosive devices and other security threats in schools. —Joseph Tristan Roxas/KG, GMA News