The Police Regional Office CALABARZON, led by Regional Director PBGEN Paul Kenneth T Lucas, has heightened its alert status and mobilized extensive security measures in preparation for a 3-day transport strike by the Samahang Manibela Mananakay at Nagkaisang Terminal ng Transportasyon (Manibela).

The strike is scheduled from June 10 to 12, 2024, coinciding with the country’s 126th Independence Day Celebration.

Lucas has instructed all police provincial directors to closely monitor the situation within their jurisdictions to ensure public safety during the strike. This includes coordinating with Local Government Units (LGUs) and relevant authorities to implement comprehensive security measures to protect participants, commuters, and public property.

Approximately 2,000 police personnel are prepared for immediate deployment and augmentation, including the activation of the Reactionary Standby Support Force (RSSF) of each provincial office and the regional headquarters.

Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) units have also been activated to address any potential disruptions during the strike.

“As we prepare for this transport strike, it is vital that we are ready to address any potential challenges. While we fully respect the freedom of expression, our priority is to ensure the safety of everyone involved and maintain harmony within our community,” Lucas said.

The Police Regional Office CALABARZON had earlier conducted an extensive communication and outreach campaign to inform the public, commuters, and other stakeholders about the strike and its potential impacts. The public is advised to stay at home unless it is essential to travel.

To alleviate the inconvenience caused by the strike, PNP and LGU buses and trucks will be utilized for the “Libreng Sakay Program,” offering free transportation services to affected commuters.

Travelers should anticipate delays due to PNP checkpoints, coordinated with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), LTFRB, and Highway Patrol Group, and an increased police presence on roads, at terminals, and in key gathering areas to maintain order and security.

“To our deployed police officers, let us exercise maximum tolerance. Our job is to maintain order during these three days,” Lucas added.