The Manila Police District (MPD) has doubled its security deployment in the capital city, particularly around the vicinity of the Malacañang Palace, following the attacks in Marawi City.
Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada directed the 4,600-strong MPD to use all available assets to preserve peace and order and thwart any attempts by lawless elements to sow terror and chaos in the city of 1.7 million people.
“To the Manileños, please rest assured that our law enforcement units are on guard to protect our city,” Estrada said.
“In the meantime, remain calm but be vigilant. You have nothing to worry about as of this moment,” he added.
In an interview, MPD Director Chief Supt. Joel Coronel said they have ringed the grounds of Malacañang with security checkpoints and 24/7 foot and mobile patrols in coordination with the Presidential Security Group (PSG).
“We are on full alert to prevent the incident from Marawi City to spill over in Metro Manila. Baka magkaroon ng mga diversionary actions so we have to prepare for it,” the MPD chief said. (Jaimie Rose R. Aberia)