PNP PROHIBITED LAVISH CHRISTMAS PARTIES


Some government agencies are following the call of President Marcos Jr. to avoid lavish Christmas parties this season after series of storms hit the country (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN News)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) will avoid “lavish” Christmas parties for the holiday season in 2024 following the call of President Marcos Jr. for government officials and employees to scale down Christmas parties.
The call is “in solidarity” with Filipinos affected by the recent string of typhoons according to Marcos. PNP Director Maj. Gen. Roderick Alba said that the prohibition is to channel funds into relief for typhoon-hit areas instead.
“We appreciate that instruction because we are in a situation where that’s not a priority at PNP. Ever since, celebration hasn’t been our priority because while everybody is celebrating, the PNP is very busy securing the streets, the communities even on Yuletide season,” Alba said.
The DPCR Director said the police force would leave it up to regional directors and heads of national support units to decide what celebration would be appropriate for them but that “the instruction is very clear” not to “spend too much.”
Meanwhile, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil also issued a directive to police officials to avoid extravagant celebrations as a form of solidarity with millions of Filipinos. The PNP said the savings from shunning expensive parties would be used to assist those who were affected by the typhoons.
Starting December 15, the PNP will implement a ‘no leave policy’ for all police officers until January 12, 2025 in preparations to ensure public safety. Fajardo stated that “Security comes first” emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong police presence during the festive period. The decision comes in response to the anticipated surge in crowds at strategic locations across the country during Christmas.
Fajardo explained that the holiday season typically sees a significant increase in public activities, necessitating heightened security measures. The no leave policy aims to maximize the availability of police personnel to address any potential threats and ensure the safety of the public.
Aside from PNP, Education Secretary Sonny Angara also directed all Department of Education (DepEd) regional directors, schools division superintendents, school heads and all other concerned units of the agency to considerate the Palace call to avoid extravagant celebrations this Christmas season.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority will also observe a simple Christmas celebration in support of Malacañang’s call.
Source: Philippine Star
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