The Dagupan City Police Office (DCPO) has received more than 80 additional police officers to boost security in the city for Christmas as crowds begin to swell in public places.

The additional personnel arrived morning on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, from Police Regional Office 1 and will be deployed to various police stations across the city. Police officials said the reinforcements will help strengthen visibility and maintain peace and order during the busy holiday season.

DCPO Director, PCol. Orly Pagaduan, said the added manpower allows police to adjust deployments, especially in areas expected to draw large crowds.

“Nagri-reconfigure kami ng places of deployment dahil sa nadagdag na tao natin. So far, maganda pa naman ‘yung security plan natin,” Pagaduan said.

Police said they will focus on crowded areas, particularly churches, as Simbang Gabi and Misa de Gallo have already started. With the reinforcements, the total police force in Dagupan now stands at more than 400 personnel.

Authorities warned that incidents of pickpocketing and theft usually increase as Christmas nears, especially in busy areas such as churches, markets, and transport terminals. Older residents are often the most vulnerable, police said.

“Dapat maingat lagi. Huwag masyadong magtitiwala na magdala ng pera na walang kasama,” Pagaduan added.

Some residents say they are already taking precautions.

“Huwag magsuot ng alahas na nakakaakit sa mga magnanakaw,” Jun Tolentino, a resident of Barangay Pantal, said.

The DCPO continues to advise the public to remain alert, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and stay cautious in crowded areas to prevent becoming victims of theft during the holiday season.