MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed thousands of officers on heightened alert and deployed about 12,000 personnel across Metro Manila as part of an intensified nationwide security operation for the country’s 128th Independence Day celebration, amid expectations of large public gatherings and possible protest actions.
PNP chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said authorities have completed security preparations for Friday’s observance, with police units nationwide coordinating closely with local governments and partner agencies to ensure peaceful and orderly celebrations.
While no verified threats have been monitored, the police chief stressed that security forces remain ready to respond to any contingency.
“This is an annual activity that we prepare for every year. We trust our commanders and personnel for real-time security adjustments based on threat assessments, intelligence gathering and situation on the ground,” Nartatez said.
The PNP said police units throughout the country remain under heightened alert status, with standby forces strategically positioned for immediate deployment if needed.
This year’s Independence Day celebration carries the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” and will feature traditional flag-raising ceremonies, wreath-laying rites, parades, and cultural presentations in various parts of the country.
In Metro Manila, security coverage has been intensified in major venues expected to draw large crowds, including Rizal Park, the route of the Parada ng Kalayaan, the Bonifacio Monument, the Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion, the Pinaglabanan Memorial Shrine, the Malacañang area, and the vicinity of the United States Embassy in Manila.
Additional security measures have also been implemented around the Senate and the House of Representatives in coordination with officials from both chambers.
Police officials said the expanded deployment also takes into consideration the possibility of demonstrations and protest activities amid continuing political tensions in the country.
“We are ready. We are continuously monitoring the situation and we assure the Filipino people of the PNP’s presence and readiness as the country celebrates its Independence Day,” Nartatez said.
The PNP urged the public to cooperate with security personnel, observe safety protocols, and remain vigilant as Filipinos nationwide commemorate the anniversary of the country’s independence./PN
