More cops sent to Boracay for holidays
More policemen have been deployed to Boracay Island and other areas expected to be crowded during the Christmas and New Year's Day celebration.
Chief Supt. Isagani Cuevas, Western Visayas police director, said in a telephone interview that around 50 policemen have been sent to Boracay Island to reinforce the Boracay Special Tourist Police Office. The BSTPO has currently 90 policemen.
Cuevas said the additional policemen will ensure the security of thousands of guests who are expected to flock to the popular island-resort during the holidays and in preparation for the Ati-Atihan festival in the capital town of Kalibo in Aklan.
More policemen will also be deployed in shopping malls, shipping ports and airports, churches and other crowded areas.
Around 240 fresh graduates of the Philippine National Police Modified Scout Course will be deployed in Western Visayas as part of security measures. Cuevas said this will be coupled with intensified intelligence operations against crimes.
Police have also been alerted for the coming commemoration of the 40th year anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines on December 26.
Cuevas said, despite the suspension of military operations of the government and the ceasefire declared by the CPP and its armed wing, the New People's Army, policemen will remain alert for criminal acts.