Over 2,000 cops deployed for school opening

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 has set in place security preparations for the school opening today, July 29.

Lieutenant Colonel Arnel Solis, PRO-6 spokesperson, said PRO-6 will maximize the deployment of its personnel in strategic areas such as school vicinities, transport hubs, and main thoroughfares.

“There will be an established police presence through mobile and foot patrols and the deployment of detective patrollers in identified areas,” Solis stated.

Solis mentioned that more than 2,000 personnel have been deployed to secure the opening of in-person classes.

There are 917 personnel assigned to police assistance desks, 696 for mobile patrols, and 681 for foot patrols.

Brigadier General Jack Wanky, Western Visayas police chief, said all unit commanders at provincial, city, and municipal levels were ordered to ensure a safe and orderly opening of classes in Western Visayas.

“I have instructed all unit commanders to ensure that everyone remains safe and that the start of classes is peaceful,” Wanky said.

Law enforcement operations will be intensified to prevent crime and deter lawless elements from conducting nefarious activities.

Police were also instructed to coordinate closely with school authorities and local government units (LGUs).

Local government traffic enforcement units will assist the police in managing traffic to ensure smooth vehicle flow.

Moreover, barangay officials, barangay tanods, and other force multipliers will assist the police in maintaining peace and order and ensuring public safety in their respective barangays.

“They are our active partners, and we can accomplish more by collaborating with them. Rest assured that your police in the region will be proactive to ensure an orderly and peaceful opening of classes,” Wanky added.

The region’s top cop also urged parents, students, and the general public to remain vigilant to avoid becoming victims of lawless elements and to carefully plan their travel routes to avoid traffic jams.