MANILA — With millions of Filipinos expected to crowd roads, transport hubs and public spaces for Christmas and year-end celebrations, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered the Philippine National Police (PNP) to tighten security nationwide and maintain a heightened state of alert throughout the holiday season.
Speaking during the oath-taking of 50 newly promoted star-ranked PNP officers at Malacañan Palace on Wednesday, Marcos said the spike in travel, public activities and mass gatherings requires stronger police visibility and faster response to deter crime and ensure public safety.
“As we are in the holiday season, when more people are out in public and families are on the move, this period calls for heightened security and vigilance,” Marcos said.
The President directed the police to maintain a strong presence in critical areas such as highways, transport terminals, commercial centers and venues hosting holiday events to reassure the public and prevent criminal incidents.
“Tiyakin ninyo ang kaligtasan ng bawat mamamayan upang tunay natin maramdaman ang saya ng kapaskuhan ng may kapanatagan at pagkakaisa at may tunay na ligaya,” he said.
Marcos reminded the newly promoted officers that police work demands constant readiness, stressing that public service does not pause during festive periods and that decisions must always be guided by the nation’s best interest.
He also congratulated the officers on their promotions, urging them to take pride in their achievements while finding time to celebrate the holidays with their families.
The President reiterated his administration’s full backing for the PNP, citing its critical role in preserving peace and order, especially during periods of heightened public movement.
Earlier, the PNP announced the activation of its annual holiday security plan, placing units on heightened alert and deploying personnel nationwide for the Christmas and New Year celebrations. More than 100,000 police officers are set to be deployed across the country to secure communities, transport routes and major public venues throughout the holiday season./PN
