The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced a massive security deployment for the upcoming Trillion Peso March and related activities, with over 11,000 police officers set to ensure the safety of participants and the general public. In a statement released on Sunday, PNP Chief General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. highlighted the importance of coordination and preparedness as the police force intensifies its readiness for large-scale public gatherings.
Ensuring Peaceful Assembly and Public Safety
The planned gatherings, which include prayer and indignation rallies scheduled for February 22 and 25, are expected to draw around 50,000 participants. Nartatez emphasized the PNP's commitment to protecting the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. "It is our duty to ensure that every Filipino has the freedom to express themselves and to assemble peacefully—safely and without fear," he stated. "We are committed to proactive, visible, and responsive policing during these events. Safety is our top priority; we are asking everyone to cooperate with the police."
Coordination and Operational Planning
To further strengthen coordination, the PNP will hold a coordination conference this coming week. This meeting aligns with the processing of permits and the finalization of operational plans with event organizers. Nartatez urged participants and the public to follow safety protocols and guidelines, noting that the goal is a safe and peaceful event while remembering the legacy of People Power.
Comprehensive Deployment Strategy
As part of the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) under the PNP Focused Agenda, the deployment will be anchored on strong district coverage. The initial forces will be led by:
- Quezon City Police District: 2,642 personnel
- Manila Police District: 2,438 personnel
- Southern Police District: 2,322 personnel
- Northern Police District: 1,056 personnel
- Eastern Police District: 1,000 personnel
Reinforcements and Support Units
These forces will be reinforced by personnel from various units, including:
- Regional Headquarters: 700 personnel
- Regional Intelligence Division: 73 personnel
- Regional Mobile Force Battalion: 558 personnel
- Special Action Force: 77 personnel
Support units will also be mobilized to ensure full operational readiness, such as the Regional Communications and Electronics Unit (45 personnel), the Regional Highway Patrol Unit (24 personnel), the Regional Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit (103 personnel), and the Regional Medical and Dental Unit (10 personnel). In total, the combined initial deployment will reach 11,498 personnel.
Expected Outcomes and Public Assurance
This comprehensive security coverage is designed to ensure effective crowd management, traffic control, emergency response, and public safety monitoring throughout the scheduled events. The PNP's proactive measures aim to prevent incidents and maintain order, reflecting a robust approach to handling large public gatherings in the Philippines.
