Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. announced that heightened police visibility and maximum deployment will be enforced across Metro Manila, particularly in Binondo and other high-traffic areas, to ensure a safe and orderly celebration of Chinese New Year on February 17.
“The Philippine National Police has prepared the necessary security measures for this activity not only in Metro Manila but also in other parts of the country. We have mobilized units for crowd management and anti-criminality patrols to ensure that our Filipino-Chinese community and the general public can celebrate safely,” said Nartatez.
He said police assistance desks will be placed in strategic areas near major temples, commercial centers, and activity sites to provide immediate response to emergencies and address public concerns on the ground.
He added that the Manila Police District is closely coordinating with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for traffic management and road closures, including routes near the Binondo-Intramuros Bridge and Jones Bridge.
More than 7,000 policemen are expected to be deployed on Tuesday in various areas in Metro Manila, more than 1,000 of them will be designated in the Binondo area.
Nartatez also directed regional police offices to increase visibility in other Chinatown districts in other urban areas.
He said police intelligence units have also been tasked to monitor potential threats and organized crime groups that may exploit large gatherings. (Aaron Recuenco)
