Locals support intensified police visibility in Caraga
By Jennifer P. Gaitano
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify police presence nationwide, local residents have expressed their full support, hopeful that the heightened visibility of law enforcement will significantly reduce criminal activities perpetrated by lawless elements across the region.
Trinidad D. Villamor, purok president of Barangay Golden Ribbon in Butuan City, expressed her appreciation to the Marcos’ administration for taking concrete steps to assure the Filipino people of their safety, emphasizing that local authorities are now more prepared and responsive to the needs of the community.
“I am optimistic that this initiative will create a significant impact, not only on local residents but also on tourists. We firmly support the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the performance of their duties and responsibilities, as they work to ensure peace, order, and public safety,” she said.
Punong Barangay Efren Acaso of Holy Redeemer, Butuan City, also emphasized that heightened police visibility has long been implemented in their area, particularly since the barangay covers the Langihan Public Market and the Langihan Bus Terminal—both of which are high-traffic areas frequented by large numbers of people daily.
We maintain constant collaboration with the PNP personnel assigned in our area and regularly conduct patrols to preempt any possible untoward incidents within our barangay,” he said.
“With more police personnel present, people feel safer. This also increases public trust and confidence in our law enforcers,” added Acaso.
Meanwhile, Police Major Jennifer S. Ometer, chief of the Regional Public Information Office (RPIO) of the PNP Caraga, emphasized that the heightened police visibility across the region has contributed to a noticeable decrease in recorded crime incidents in various parts of Caraga.
“Your PNP personnel will continue to do their utmost duty to serve the best interests of our communities,” she said. (JPG, PIA Caraga)
