The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) is mobilizing a massive security force of over one thousand officers to ensure public safety during the New Year's Eve celebrations. This deployment is part of the long-running Oplan Paskuhan, which began at the start of the holiday season.
Heightened Patrols in Tourist and Residential Areas
Police Colonel George Ylanan, chief of the CCPO, stated that their preparations have been ongoing. A significant number of police personnel will be visible on the streets, conducting patrols, especially in interior barangay areas, to provide protection to the public.
The police have noted a large influx of both foreign and local visitors in Cebu City due to the extended vacation period. Consequently, additional police forces have been assigned to tourist areas, shopping malls, and other popular destinations frequented by visitors.
Public Advisory: Social Media Caution and Firearm Safety
Colonel Ylanan also urged Cebuanos to remain vigilant against criminal elements. He issued a specific warning regarding social media use, advising the public not to post real-time updates about their vacation locations.
"We remind our people, number one is discipline on social media. Do not post 'At this moment' or ATM if you are not at home. You can post about your vacation, but perhaps do it after you return, so you do not become a target for criminals," Ylanan said.
Meanwhile, Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan, chief of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 7, had earlier placed the entire Central Visayas police force on alert status. Their deployment strategy focuses on preventing crimes typically associated with New Year's revelry.
Their goal is to achieve zero crime incidents and zero victims of firecracker-related injuries across the region. The public is advised to purchase fireworks only from legitimate retailers.
General Maranan issued a stern warning against the dangerous tradition of indiscriminate firing of guns to greet the New Year. "Let us not engage in indiscriminate firing using our guns because that is extremely dangerous. You could kill someone, you could injure yourself, and most importantly, there is a corresponding penalty of imprisonment," Maranan emphasized.
Region-Wide Security Blanket
To guarantee a smooth and peaceful celebration throughout Central Visayas, Brig. Gen. Maranan has ordered the deployment of more than 10,000 police officers across the region. This large-scale security operation underscores the commitment of the Philippine National Police to safeguard the community during one of the year's biggest festivities.
