The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) has placed police forces across Metro Manila on heightened alert ahead of the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit, while ensuring that regular anti-criminality operations remain in place.

In an online statement, NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Police Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano has directed all five police districts to maintain police visibility and intensify patrols as personnel prepare for the summit and related activities scheduled for Nov. 15 to 18.

The directive covers residential communities, commercial establishments, business districts, transport terminals and other public areas, with police units ordered to step up mobile, motorcycle and foot patrols.

Abrahano also instructed district commanders to monitor crime trends and intelligence reports to identify areas that need additional police presence and ensure a quick response to incidents, particularly robbery, theft and other street crimes.

He stressed that preparations for the international gathering should not leave communities vulnerable or affect regular police services.

“The ASEAN Summit is a major national responsibility, but it must never come at the expense of the safety of our communities,” Abrahano said.

He added that police must secure summit delegates, venues and routes while continuing to protect residents, commuters, workers and businesses across the metropolis.

The NCRPO said it would also ensure the proper distribution of personnel and resources to balance summit security requirements with its ongoing campaign against criminality.