Cops to increase presence in transport hubs amid New Year exodus

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Sunday it will strengthen police visibility in transport hubs, major roads, and public areas amid the expected surge of travelers for the New Year’s celebration.

In a statement, Acting Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. emphasized that police units will increase deployment of cops in key terminals, airports, and ports to manage the expected surge of travelers returning to their provinces.

“We expect another influx of passengers for the New Year celebration, especially that there will be a long holiday break. Our goal is to maintain police visibility for them to feel safe from the bus terminals, to the major thoroughfares and to their destinations,” said Nartatez.

“The mere presence of our personnel on the ground already serves as an assurance to our kababayan that assistance will be there in case of any eventuality,” he added.

Earlier, the PNP said over 100,000 law enforcers will be deployed nationwide for the holiday season, a significant increase from 60,000 in 2024. 

Malacañang earlier suspended work in all government offices on December 29 and January to give government workers a long holiday break.

Nartatez urged travelers to observe rules in terminals and other transport hubs to avoid delays.

Police personnel are also instructed to assist concerned government agencies during their road worthiness inspection of passenger buses and physical and mental readiness of drivers to ensure safe travel. — RF, GMA Integrated News