PNP on heightened alert starting April 30 for Labor Day protests

The Philippine National Police (PNP) will be on heightened alert status starting April 30 in preparation for Labor Day activities and protests across the country.

“Magsimula po bukas, oras ng 12:01 a.m. ng madaling araw, April 30, up to 12:01 a.m. ng madaling araw ng May 2, ang buong hanay ng PNP po ay idedeklara po na heightened alert status,” PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño said at a press briefing.

(Starting tomorrow, at 12:01 a.m. of April 30 up to 12:01 a.m. of May 2, the entire PNP will be declared on heightened alert status.)

Under the heightened alert, all police personnel are required to report for duty, with the PNP enforcing 100% attendance to ensure maximum deployment.

Tuaño said more than 106,000 police officers will be deployed nationwide, including personnel from specialized units such as the Highway Patrol Group, Aviation Security Group, and Maritime Group.

The PNP said it is closely coordinating with other government agencies and local government units to ensure peaceful and orderly observance of Labor Day.

In Metro Manila, several groups have applied for permits to hold rallies in key areas, including near the US Embassy in Manila as well as in the University of the Philippines Diliman, Welcome Rotonda, and Department of Social Welfare and Development in Quezon City. 

However, police noted that permits for these activities were still pending approval.

Tuaño said the PNP will remain non-partisan and apolitical, while ensuring the safety of protesters and the general public.

Police also said they have not monitored any specific threats related to the Labor Day events but assured that security measures are in place should any situation arise.

Authorities urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement and follow local ordinances during the observance of Labor Day. —VAL, GMA News