PNP, DOT ink deal for improved security in major tourism areas

The Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) on Monday signed the Tourist-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection (TOPCOP) agreement that would strengthen the security for tourists and tourist areas.

The memorandum of agreement was signed by PNP chief Police General Oscar Albayalde and Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat in Camp Crame.

The TOPCOP, which was initially forged in 2011, was also envisioned to ensure the special and proper handling of tourist-related security and safety issues.

It was also conceptualized to institutionalize the availability of tourist police in various tourism destinations in the Philippines.

The new version of the agreement mandates that both parties would:

• allocate the necessary funds and resources for the maintenance and operation of the TOPCOP;
• together with other partners, develop a continuing training and education program for members of the TOPCOP to enhance their capabilities in managing security in the destination; and
• coordinate with other national government agencies, the private sector, and other stakeholders for support and assistance in the implementation and sustained operations of TOPCOP.

Under Republic Act No. 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009, the PNP was given the responsibility to establish a tourism security force that would assist in maintaining peace and order within areas of high tourism traffic. — DVM, GMA News