DILG mobilizes 78,000 personnel to ensure peaceful yuletide season

DAVAO CITY—To ensure safe and smooth Christmas and New Year celebrations, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has mobilized 78,000 personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP).

DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and safety during the holidays, particularly in public spaces and high-risk areas.

To ensure the safety of our countrymen this Christmas season, thousands of personnel—nearly 40,000 PNP members and nearly 38,000 BFP firefighters—are on standby,” Remulla said.

The BJMP is also on heightened alert to maintain order in detention facilities and ensure a peaceful holiday for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs).

The DILG has implemented a range of measures to ensure smooth celebrations:

1. Deployment of Personnel:
   • PNP personnel are stationed in public spaces, malls, transport hubs, and churches to provide visibility and deter crimes.
   • BFP firefighters are on high alert for emergencies such as fires and accidents.
   • The BJMP has strengthened security protocols in detention facilities to prevent disruptions.
2. Heightened Patrols and Checkpoints:
   • Round-the-clock patrols are being conducted in crowded areas to ensure public safety.
   • Checkpoints and inspections have been intensified, particularly at transport terminals and borders.
3. Local Government Collaboration:
   • The DILG is working with local government units (LGUs) to implement safety measures in communities. Barangay officials are assisting in monitoring local festivities and preventing disturbances.
4. Fire Safety and Emergency Response:
   • Fire stations are on high alert, and quick-response teams have been deployed to address firecracker-related incidents, which historically increase during the holidays.
   • Public awareness campaigns on fire safety and injury prevention are being conducted nationwide.
5. Crime Prevention Initiatives:
   • The PNP has rolled out Oplan Ligtas Paskuhan 2024, focusing on reducing theft, robbery, and other crimes common during the holiday season.
   • Emergency hotlines are active for immediate reporting and response to incidents.
6. Public Awareness Campaigns:
   • The DILG is actively promoting safety reminders, including responsible firecracker use, vigilance in public spaces, and adherence to traffic rules.

PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo reported that no significant untoward incidents occurred on Christmas Eve, attributing the peaceful celebrations to enhanced security measures and public cooperation.

Remulla highlighted Filipinos’ resilience and the DILG’s role in ensuring a safe and prosperous nation in a gratitude message.

“Sa masayang panahon ng paggunita sa kapanganakan ng ating Panginoong Hesus, kaisa po ang DILG ng bawat Pilipino sa taos-pusong pagpapasalamat sa mga nakamit nating tagumpay ngayong taon” he said.

As the year ends, Remulla reaffirmed the department’s commitment to fostering a peaceful, prosperous, and progressive Philippines.

“Kasama ninyo po ang DILG sa patuloy nating pagtahak tungo sa tunay na payapa, maunlad at progresibong Bagong Pilipinas (The DILG is with you in our continued journey towards a truly peaceful, prosperous, and progressive New Philippines),” he added.

With these comprehensive measures in place, the government aims to sustain peace and safety throughout the holidays, ensuring Filipinos can celebrate the season without disruption as they welcome the New Year.