Raising of security alert level up to area commanders: PNP

Durana, however, said commanders have been instructed to make their own security assessments in their areas of jurisdiction. (File Photo: PTV News/Website)

MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said raising the alert level for the holiday season is up to the discretion of the police regional and provincial directors across the country.

In a statement, PNP spokesperson, Chief Supt. Benigno Durana said the PNP already has a template for security preparations during the Yuletide season aimed at preventing crimes.

Durana, however, said commanders have been instructed to make their own security assessments in their areas of jurisdiction.

He added that raising the alert status in an area will depend on the security situation there.

Durana said a command conference has been set on Thursday to finalize security preparations for the Christmas and New Year holidays.

On Saturday, the PNP announced that it will remain on alert and continue its regular law enforcement and internal security operations despite the announcement of a unilateral ceasefire from the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-National Democratic Front (CPP-NPA-NDF) for the Yuletide season.

The communist movement’s ceasefire is slated to begin at 12:01 a.m. of Dec. 24 until 11:59 p.m. of Dec. 26, and at 12:01 a.m. of Dec. 31 to 11:59 p.m. of Jan. 1, 2019.