A week before Christmas ...
Villar Asks Concerned Authorities to Ensure Safety, Ease of Travel of People

Amidst the Christmas holiday rush, Nacionalista Party President Senator Manny Villar is concerned about the safety and well being of Filipinos - both in the cities and those who are traveling to the provinces for family reunions.

"We all know that criminal activities intensify during the holiday season. We should watch out for criminal elements who are out to take advantage of unsuspecting people in the malls, streets and transport terminals," said Villar.

He added police visibility near shopping malls, ports, airports, and bus terminals should be increased in order to prevent any untoward incidents. According to Villar, reports have reached his office that there are syndicates that target returning overseas Filipino workers or OFWs.

"Napakalungkot naman na nabibiktima ang ating mga kababayang OFWs na umuuwi sa ating bansa at excited makasama ang kanilang mga pamilya ngayong Pasko. Marami sa kanila, sa airport pa lang ay nabibiktima na. The criminals did not even spare recently honored 'CNN hero of the year' Efren Peñaflorida who was victimized at the airport recently," said Villar.

The PNP, according to reports, has instructed its regional offices to activate their respective security and public safety plans. According to Villar, police authorities should also strictly conduct security checks particularly in checkpoints and criminal hotspots.

"An increasing number of holdup incidents take place inside buses, jeepneys, and taxis. Police in civilian clothes can help ensure the safety of commuters and travelers. Some OFWs traveling from the airport to their homes in nearby cities and provinces also run the risks of being apprehended by roadside hold-uppers. We should really be vigilant about crimes, from petty to organized ones," said Villar.

Villar also urges transportation agencies to ensure that buses or ships that will ferry people to around the country to attend Christmas gatherings are safe and in good condition. "Port authorities should be on guard against overloading. We want to avoid anything that will ruin the festive celebration of our fellow Filipinos. For instance, taking a ship to attend a family reunion should not end into a tragedy," he also said.