By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said it is closely monitoring the situation at the United States Embassy in Manila and other critical areas for possible protests following U.S. military operations in Venezuela.
In a statement, PNP Acting Chief PLt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., said police units are on standby to monitor potential mass demonstrations at sensitive locations and ensure that these remain orderly and peaceful.
“We are prepared for any protest action and similar activities. Our police units, especially in Metro Manila and other urban areas, are monitoring the situation in their respective areas and ready to respond to any eventuality,” said Nartatez.
“Our units are closely monitoring the U.S. Embassy and other critical locations. Mayroon tayong mga police personnel na naka-standby upang matiyak na magiging maayos at mapayapa ang mga lugar na ito,” he added.
The U.S. military launched a large-scale military operation against Venezuela on Jan. 3, involving airstrikes and ground action reportedly aimed at dismantling narcotics trafficking and criminal networks linked to the Venezuelan government.
Reports said Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured and transported to New York to face charges.
In response, several groups and Filipino lawmakers called on the national government to condemn the U.S. government over its military operations in the South American nation.
Nartatez has instructed all local police units, especially the Manila Police District and the National Capital Region Police Office, to remain vigilant and maintain close coordination with local government units and barangay officials to monitor the security situation in strategic locations.
“May dagdag tayo na presensiya ng ating kapulisan sa mga strategic locations para maagapan ang anumang posibleng kaguluhan. Sa ngayon wala pa naman tayong namomonitor na mga kilos-protesta but we are anticipating na mayroong mga grupo na magkakasa ng mga pagkilos,” he noted.
Intelligence units have also been tasked to monitor social media and public forums for any potential protest plans or security threats. (PNA)
