The Philippine National Police will deploy heightened security across Metro Manila and key cities nationwide as crowds gather for Chinese New Year celebrations, with authorities stressing that the goal is to keep the festivities peaceful, orderly, and enjoyable.
Police will adopt a maximum presence posture in high traffic areas, particularly in Binondo and other activity centers expected to draw large crowds. The deployment includes crowd management teams, anti criminality patrols, and police assistance desks positioned near temples, commercial hubs, and major celebration sites.
“The Philippine National Police has prepared the necessary security measures for this activity not only in Metro Manila but also in other parts of the country,” PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said. “We have mobilized units for crowd management and anti criminality patrols to ensure that our Filipino Chinese community and the general public can celebrate safely.”
Authorities said the security plan is designed to allow celebrations to proceed smoothly while maintaining visibility on the ground. Regional police offices were also instructed to increase patrols in other Chinatown districts in urban areas outside Metro Manila.
Police intelligence units have been tasked to monitor potential threats and organized crime groups that may attempt to exploit large public gatherings. The Manila Police District is coordinating closely with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to manage traffic flow and implement road closures near key routes, including areas surrounding the Binondo Intramuros Bridge and Jones Bridge.
“We ask for the public’s patience. Ang mga rerouting schemes ay ginawa para hindi maging ‘chokepoint’ ang mga selebrasyon. Pinapayuhan namin ang mga motorista na gumamit ng alternative routes,” Nartatez said.
Police assistance desks will be on standby to respond quickly to emergencies and address concerns from the public throughout the celebrations. Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security measures to ensure that the Chinese New Year festivities remain safe, peaceful, and fun for everyone.
