AS Christmas approaches, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday called for heightened vigilance and visible police presence to ensure the safety of citizens and the peaceful holiday celebration. “When more people are out in public, and families are on the move, this period calls for heightened security and vigilance,” Marcos said in his speech during the oathtaking of the newly promoted officials of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Malacañang. “So, maintain a visible and reassuring presence on our roads, in public spaces, in transport hubs, and in communities where families gather,” he added. The president asked the PNP to ensure the safety of the public in order for everyone to feel the true spirit of Christmas. Marcos reminded the police officers that public service does not pause even during times of celebration. He congratulated the officers on their promotion and reaffirmed his administration’s support for the PNP, recognizing its critical role in maintaining peace and order, especially during periods of heightened public activity. “In this environment, our people rely on the police as their immediate and dependable line of protection. Given the nature of your duties, be assured that this Administration stands firmly behind the Philippine National Police,” Marcos said. The PNP has prepared its security measures to ensure public safety during Christmas and New Year activities, placing units on alert and deploying personnel across the country. Under its Ligtas Paskuhan (Safe Christmas) 2025 strategy, more than 70,000 police personnel will be deployed in churches and other busy areas to ensure the safety of the worshippers. In a statement over the weekend, acting PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez said security measures include intensified foot patrols, checkpoints and mobile patrols, as well as close coordination with local government units, barangay officials and church authorities for crowd control and emergency response.