PNP readies security for 'Simbang Gabi'

With less than three weeks to go before Christmas, the Philippine National Police has prepared security measures for the yearly "Simbang Gabi" (Dawn Masses).

 

The PNP issued Letter of Instruction 42-2011, which lists the guidelines for public safety operations in all places of convergence including churches.

 

PNP chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome also ordered heightened alert in Metro Manila and Cordillera as well as national headquarters and national support units.

 

Bartolome reiterated full alert status in Regions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, ARMM and the Special Action Force troopers following bombing incidents in Mindanao.

 

Millions are expected to observe the Simbang Gabi, which is considered a unique Filipino Christmas tradition, the PNP noted.

 

For nine days starting December 16, Filipino Catholics flock to churches before dawn as a novena to the Virgin Mary.

 

Catholics attend the Masses, which trace their roots to Mexico, to welcome the birth of Christ.

 

The Simbang Gabi culminates in the Misa de Gallo, the Mass held on Christmas Eve.

 

Christmas watch

 

Police were instructed to keep watch over tourist spots, vacation hubs, markets, malls, airports, seaports, and bus terminals.

 

Bartolome ordered all PNP regional, provincial and local commanders to intensify police patrols using the Police Integrated Patrol System (PIPS).

 

“The PNP vows to keep the nation safe as Christians celebrate the Yuletide season. We will intensify all police operations and will use all our resources and manpower just to make sure that the holidays will be peaceful and merry,” Bartolome said.

 

He added the intensified police operations will last until January to make sure lawless elements and criminals will not victimize people during the holidays.

 

Tapping village watchmen, security guards

 

Bartolome also instructed police to augment beat patrol personnel in anti-street crime operations.

 

He said the PNP also tapped the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs) and other accredited NGOs and radio groups to help provide public assistance and traffic management along major roads nationwide.

 

The PNP expects the arrival of balikbayans and tourists who will visit the country and celebrate the holidays with friends and relatives.

 

Security guards will also be tapped to help in safeguarding the country. 

 

Assistance hubs

 

The PNP also announced it will put up 24/7 Assistance Hubs in major airports, seaports, and transport terminals and will also strictly monitor illegal fireworks.

 

It will work with the Department of Health (DOH) for the “Iwas Paputok” Campaign to lower the incidence of firecracker-related incidents.

 

The PNP added it will disseminate information to the public on how they can keep their homes safe while they are away for the holidays. –KG, GMA News