by Christopher Lloyd Caliwan/PNA
MANILA — The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) said it has yet to detect security threats in Metro Manila for the Holy Week.
“So far, we have not received information on threats but we remain alert for the Holy Week, especially in places of convergence, like churches for those doing Visita Iglesia. We will deploy police assistance desk in churches here in Metro Manila as part of our preparations,” NCRPO head, Major Gen. Guillermo Eleazar told reporters on the sidelines of the simulation exercise conducted by the Manila Police District’s Special Weapons and Tactics Teams (SWAT) and other rescue units at the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church area in Intramuros in Manila on Thursday.
The activity included bomb explosion and active shooting scenarios aimed at testing the preparedness of the police and to ensure public safety.
“We want to be sure that our men are all capable and doing the right thing on the ground and adhering to the protocols in responding to bombing incidents. We also want to see the possible lapses and areas that need improvement, including the functionality of all the equipment and vehicles needed, in order for us to gauge the success of what we intend to do during the crisis situation,” he said, adding that the simulation exercise was part of preparations for the Holy Week, summer vacation, and elections.
Eleazar said the value of time in responding to an incident is precious, noting that responders must always remember the proper procedure and protocols set, to prevent more casualties.
“By doing these exercises, we review what to do because in the real scenario, it’s really difficult if we are not prepared. We have a contingency plan in case of these events but more importantly, the simulation exercise is a test of whether we are able to observe protocols and we are able to determine lapses or areas of improvement,” he told the personnel involved in exercise.
The NCRPO chief said that they will still conduct simulation exercises not only in churches but also in other establishments.
Meanwhile, Eleazar said they will go on full alert during the Holy Week in anticipation of the exodus of travelers.
A total of 11,600 policemen will be deployed to secure vital installations, bus terminals, jeepney stops, airports and seaports, churches and other pilgrimage sites, and even residential areas to ensure a peaceful observance of the Holy Week.
He said particular emphasis will be placed on securing bus terminals, seaports and airports, adding that aside from the deployment of uniformed personnel and K9 units, assistance desks will also be set up in these facilities.
