ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) deployed a total of 139 rookie police officers to Boracay Island in preparation for the six-month closure and rehabilitation of the beach destination starting April 26.
PRO-6 spokeswoman Chief Inspector Joem Malong said the augmentation forces were tasked to provide security and maintain peace and order in the island while rehabilitation works are in progress.
The additional police officers arrived there on Saturday.
Malong added that the police personnel, with Police Officer 1 ranks, have just completed their training on civil disturbance management.
“There has been no riot or rally in the area, but the Police Regional Office 6 would like to inform you that we are prepared for whatever happens during the closure or rehabilitation of Boracay,” she said, adding that the peace and order situation in Boracay is still manageable.
PRO-6 might send more forces to the island depending on the situation in the area “just in case the situation there escalates,” Malong stressed.
The augmentation forces’ period of stay in the island is not yet determined but Malong said “maybe as long as the rehabilitation effort is still ongoing.”
The additional police officers will help the Metro Boracay Task Force, with 169 personnel, and the Boracay Tourist Assistance Center, with 95 personnel, in keeping the island peaceful. (With PNA/PN)
