The Philippine National Police (PNP) is stepping up its efforts to ensure safety during the festive season. PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has ordered an increase in security operations to safeguard the public and tackle potential criminal activities and political challenges during the holidays.
Marbil emphasized the importance of the season, stating, ‘Christmas is a time of joy and generosity, yet it’s also a time when criminals might take advantage of people’s vulnerabilities. The PNP is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure holiday season for all Filipinos.’
To achieve this, more police officers will be visible in busy areas like shopping centers, markets, and transportation hubs. Marbil noted, ‘The sight of uniformed officers in public spaces is a testament to our commitment to public safety. Our goal is to provide reassurance and peace of mind during the busy holiday period.’
He also advised the public to stay alert, especially online, as scams and fraud increase during the holidays. ‘While we focus on dismantling the criminal networks behind these scams, public awareness and vigilance are essential in preventing victimization,’ Marbil added.
The PNP is also gearing up for political events, including an Iglesia Ni Cristo rally supporting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s stance against the impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte. Marbil reiterated the PNP’s apolitical stance, saying, ‘Our mission is clear: to ensure public safety under all conditions. The PNP is a professional organization committed to serving and protecting all Filipinos, regardless of political circumstances.’
At a press conference in Camp Crame, Quezon City, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo announced the deployment of approximately 41,000 officers across the country. These officers will be positioned at places of worship, major roads, and transportation hubs to manage the expected increase in travel to the provinces.
Fajardo mentioned that the number of deployed officers might increase further, as local police leaders are encouraged to enhance police visibility in their areas. She also noted that starting December 15, police officers are not allowed to take vacation leaves, except in emergencies, to ensure adequate staffing during the holiday season.
In the National Capital Region, acting chief Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin promised a heightened police presence in areas where crowds are expected. ‘We aim to prevent criminals from executing their plans by conducting extensive police operations,’ Aberin stated.
Aberin also reported a significant 27.93% decrease in crime rates in Metro Manila from December 1 to 7, with the number of crimes dropping from 2,334 to 1,682. He attributed this success to the NCRPO’s operational strategies and the implementation of the AAA Policing principles: able, active, and allied.
During the same period, the NCRPO conducted 205 operations, resulting in the arrest of 303 individuals and the seizure of drugs worth PHP15,963,860. Additionally, Metro Manila police arrested 392 wanted persons and 518 individuals involved in illegal gambling, confiscating PHP124,716. In preparation for the 2025 elections, 49 people were arrested, and 51 firearms were seized in 49 operations targeting illegal firearms.