PNP: 9k cops to be deployed in Metro Manila for transport strike

Over 9,900 police personnel will be deployed all over Metro Manila to ensure public safety, manage traffic flow, and aid affected commuters amid the planned transport strike today, March 19.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said a total of 9,979 personnel from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be assigned to maintain peace and order amid the protests.

Of this number, 571 personnel will be assigned to fixed visibility posts, 1,564 to mobile patrol operations, 1,298 to motorcycle patrols, and 2,312 to foot patrol duties to maximize police presence in key areas.

Another 193 police personnel are in charge of traffic assistance, while 1,701 are manning checkpoints and border control points.

This deployment includes 585 Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) personnel with 1,604 on standby, 428 Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) personnel and 59 drone operators to improve situational awareness and monitoring.

The PNP said it is also coordinating with concerned government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to support “Libreng Sakay” initiatives to help stranded passengers.

“We are fully deployed to ensure that our fellow Filipinos remain safe and can still go about their daily activities despite the situation,” said PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

“We respect the right to peaceful assembly, but we will not allow any disruption that will endanger public safety,” he added.

Earlier, PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño said around 180,000 police personnel will be deployed all over the country during the nationwide transport strike.

Tuaño said 85% of the PNP’s 230,000 strength will be dedicated to police visibility on roads.

Transport group PISTON said its nationwide strike will protest the series of big-time fuel price hikes due to tensions in the Middle East. — JMA, GMA Integrated News