Metro Manila, Philippines – The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will deploy additional personnel and provide free rides to help commuters affected by the three-day transport strike from Sept. 28 to 30, police said Sunday.
NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano ordered police districts and stations to coordinate with local governments, transport authorities and other agencies ahead of the strike.
Police visibility will be increased at transport terminals, major roads, business districts, schools and other areas expected to see heavy passenger traffic and transportation disruptions.
“Our police presence will be visible in strategic areas throughout Metro Manila. Our objective is not to interfere with the peaceful exercise of rights, but to make sure that everyone — the protesters, commuters, motorists, drivers, and the general public — can go about their activities safely,” Abrahano said.
The NCRPO will also conduct “Libreng Sakay” operations for commuters who may be stranded because of the strike.
“We understand that many of our workers, students, senior citizens and other commuters still need to reach their destinations despite the transport strike,” Abrahano said.
“Our officers will be there to assist, not only to maintain peace and order. If we see commuters who are stranded or having difficulty getting transportation, we will do what we can within our mandate to help them,” he added.
Abrahano said police would respect the right of transport groups to peacefully express their concerns while urging participants to keep the protests orderly.
He also appealed to protesters to respect drivers and operators who choose to continue providing public transportation during the strike.
“Let us make our voices heard without causing harm, intimidation, or unnecessary inconvenience to the public,” he said.
With reports from Philippine News Agency
