More than 1,000 police personnel are up for deployment during the traditional “Simbang Gabi” to ensure the safety and security of churchgoers all over Western Visayas, regional police director, Brig. Gen. Flynn Dongbo, said Tuesday, Dec. 14.
“Simbang Gabi” is a yearly Christian celebration that starts dawn of Dec. 16 until the 24th.
Dongbo said the deployment of police officers must be based on the result of assessment, and considering the crime situation and analysis of an area.
Police personnel will also secure markets, terminals, and other places of convergence.
Dongbo also reminded the public to ensure that their homes are properly locked, and the appliances unplugged, before going out to attend the nine-day masses, and to strictly observe the minimum public health protocols.
They are also advised to be watchful and vigilant at all times while travelling, and even inside of churches.
Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police will strictly adhere to the provisions of the “Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, as reiterated by the Civil Service Commission, especially this holiday season.
“We can’t tolerate any form of bribe in the organization. The PNP has been living up to its core values to protect its integrity. We want to keep it that way,” PNP chief, P/General Dionardo Carlos, stressed, adding that this is in line with the organization’s “No Take Policy”.
He cited Section 7 of Republic Act 6713 that states that “public officials and employees shall not solicit or accept, directly or indirectly, any gift, gratuity, favor, entertainment, loan or anything of monetary value from any person in the course of their official duties or in connection with any operation being regulated by, or any transaction which may be affected by the functions of their office”.
But Carlos clarified in a statement that simple gifts, like food packs given to any police personnel as a token of gratitude for their service, are allowed. “Valuable gifts that will merit favor to the giver are strictly prohibited.”
The PNP is urging the public to report under-the-table actions through the PNP’s e-Sumbong platform with hotline numbers, 0917-8475757 or 0919-1601752. – GB
