PNP cracking down on fireworks, trigger-happy revelers

Now that December is here, the Philippine National Police will be stricter in cracking down on illegal firecrackers and pyrotechnics, as well as those firing their weapons indiscriminately.

 

The PNP said this is aside from preemptive security operations such as increased foot and mobile patrols to protect the public from criminals during the holidays.

 

"Even as preemptive security operations are underway, the PNP will continue to intensify the campaign against loose firearms, illegal discharge of firearms, and campaign against criminal gangs and personalities supported by the aggressive implementation of OPLAN “Bakal” and OPLAN “Sita”, and Strict implementation of RA No 7183 (Illegal Manufacture and Sale of Firecrackers and Pyrotechnics)," it said.

 

Earlier, PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima ordered enhanced security operations before, during and after the holidays.

 

Papal visit, APEC security

 

Meanwhile, PNP Director for Operations Director Ricardo Marquez reiterated security preparations are in the works for Pope Francis' visit and for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation meetings that the Philippines will host in 2015.

 

For the papal visit, the PNP will provide operational support to the Presidential Security Group and close-in security services to the Pope’s entourage.

 

"Security coverage operations in the different venues of engagement of the Pope and public safety assistance for peace and order maintenance and police services for crowd control, vehicular/pedestrian traffic direction, route parking and venue security will also be available on the D-day," it said.

 

The PNP also said it has started security preparations for the APEC summit 2015 meetings, particularly for the safety and security of all delegates and participants, and facilitation of uninterrupted conduct of APEC meetings. —Joel Locsin/KG, GMA News