THE Philippine National Police (PNP) launched on Tuesday, April 2, the “Oplan Ligtas Sumvac (Summer Vacation) 2019” to ensure the peace and order of the public particularly in areas of convergence and vacation and tourist spots.
“With the start of summer, our Oplan Ligtas Sumvac 2019 has kicked off. We will provide additional security in vital installations such as public highways, bus terminals, sea and air ports and tourist destinations,” PNP spokesperson Colonel Bernard Banac said.
With the PNP’s Oplan Sumvac, police operational activities on road safety, motorist assistance, route security, traffic management and anti-criminality along the major travel routes and convergence in time of the summer break, particularly the Lenten season, will be activated.
Banac said a total of 77,536 policemen will be deployed to secure vital installations and to established police assistance desks nationwide where thousands of people are expected to flock.
The Oplan Sumvac will last until June or during the opening of classes.
“As for the summer vacation, the PNP steps up its security and public safety measures especially in ports, bus terminals and other areas of convergence in order to protect the citizens and for them to be able to enjoy their vacation trip to different parts of the country,” said Banac.
However, Banac reminded the public to always be alert and observant of their environment and to follow security protocols wherever they go for their safety.
He also urged the public to immediately report to the police suspicious items or people in their community.
He also discouraged vacationers from posting on social media their real time activities, as this may encourage thieves who might monitor them and take advantage of their unattended houses.
Banac also reminded the vacationers to consider double checking the lock and security of their homes.
He said the police are also working to curb the proliferation of illegal drugs in resorts and beach clubs.
“This remain a concern for us since party drugs are particularly popular among the youth. We warn those who will try to sneak in party drugs during celebrations that they will face the full force of the law if they will get caught by our tourist police,” said Banac. (SunStar Philippines)