Joint police-military task force in NCR placed on standby

September 20, 2017

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) confirmed that the Joint Task Force National Capital Region (JTFNCR) was placed on standby to support the Philippine National Police (PNP) during the observance of the national day of protest.

“For now our preparation for the rally, national day of protest tomorrow, will be to support to the members of the PNP through the JTFNCR. That is the unit that is always on standby to support the PNP in all engagements or in all activities that happens in Metro Manila,” Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP Public Affairs Chief , told reporters in Camp Aguinaldo Wednesday.

Col. Vic Tomas, JTF NCR deputy commander, confirmed that more than 1,000 personnel under their unit have been alerted for possible deployment to support the PNP is needed.

“JTF have alerted security forces and civil disturbance management companies and K9 teams to support the PNP in case of any untoward incidents. So far, no major threat reported,” he said.

Arevalo said the military does not yet see any indication the protests will become violent.

“Well, so far we have not monitored such and we hope to keep it that way,” he said. Robina Asido/DMS