Massive Police Deployment Announced for Trillion Peso March Events
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has revealed plans to deploy over 11,000 police officers to provide comprehensive security for the upcoming Trillion Peso March and its associated activities. This significant mobilization aims to ensure the safety and security of all participants and the general public during the scheduled gatherings.
Emphasis on Coordination and Preparedness
In an official statement released on Sunday, PNP Chief General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. underscored the critical importance of coordination and preparedness as the police force intensifies its readiness for large-scale public assemblies. The planned events will feature prayer and indignation rallies on February 22 and 25, with organizers anticipating a turnout of approximately 50,000 individuals.
General Nartatez articulated the PNP's commitment to safeguarding democratic freedoms, stating: "It is our duty to ensure that every Filipino has the freedom to express themselves and to assemble peacefully — safely and without fear. 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."
Strategic Planning and Operational Details
To enhance coordination efforts, the PNP will conduct a coordination conference in the coming week. This meeting aligns with the processing of permits and the finalization of detailed operational plans in collaboration with event organizers. General Nartatez further appealed to participants and the public to adhere to all established safety protocols and guidelines.
"Safe and peaceful event is our goal, while we remember the People Power legacy," he added, referencing the historical significance of peaceful assembly in the Philippines.
The deployment strategy is anchored on the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) framework under the PNP Focused Agenda. It emphasizes strong district coverage, with the primary forces being 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 frontline units will be reinforced by additional personnel from various specialized divisions, including:
- Regional Headquarters: 700 officers
- Regional Intelligence Division: 73 officers
- Regional Mobile Force Battalion: 558 officers
- Special Action Force: 77 officers
To ensure full operational readiness, several support units will also be mobilized. These include:
- Regional Communications and Electronics Unit: 45 personnel
- Regional Highway Patrol Unit: 24 personnel
- Regional Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit: 103 personnel
- Regional Medical and Dental Unit: 10 personnel
The combined initial deployment will total 11,498 police personnel, representing a comprehensive security apparatus designed to manage the anticipated large-scale events effectively.
Comprehensive Security Objectives
This extensive security coverage is expected to facilitate effective crowd management, efficient traffic control, rapid emergency response, and continuous public safety monitoring throughout the scheduled activities. The PNP's proactive measures aim to create a secure environment that respects the rights of assembly while maintaining public order.
