PNP raises police presence as Boracay reopens

October 26, 2018

The Philippine National Police ( PNP) increased police presence in Boracay as the tourist spot reopened on Friday after the government ordered it cleaned up six months ago.

PNP Director General Oscar Albayalde, in an ambush interview in Boracay, said they added more policemen especially to check baggage of tourists entering the island.

This was why lines became long, added Albayalde.

"At this time, we have a total of 667 uniformed personnel. We are augmented by the Philippine Coast Guard and the Armed Forces of the Philippines ( totalling) 170," said Albayalde.

The PNP will be help monitor the cap of 6,000 tourists which can enter Boracay but Albayalde said it will be tough.

Albyalade said although a suggestion was to do a database of tourists to make sure the number does not exceed 6,000. " There is a way, like monitoring bookings in hotels," he said.

He said the PNP is ready for the reopening of Boracay. "That's why yesterday, we conducted a simulation exercise. We had capability demonstration to ensure the public and tourists, both local and foreign, that can be at ease, that we are ready to secure their properties and lives," he said,

Albayalde is reminding tourists that they cannot bring in illegal drugs, guns, bladed weapons. "We will strictly implement the ordinances, with concerned government agencies, including environment ordinances," he said.

He said non-governmental organizations are part of a task force, which includes the police, military and coast guard to see the Boracay remains clean. "This is a good thing. Everyone is involved in maintaining the cleanliness and peace and order," he said. DMS