The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed its forces under “full alert“ status nationwide in preparation for Labor Day activities and anticipated protest actions on May 1, Friday.

The alert level was elevated from “heightened alert” to “full alert” to ensure maximum police readiness and public safety during the annual observance.

During a press briefing at Camp Crame on Thursday, PNP spokesperson Randulf Tuaño said the decision was made upon the directive of PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

“Kaugnay ng May 1, Labor Day activity, napagpasyahan po ng pamunuan ng Philippine National Police sa utos po ng ating PNP Gen. Nartatez na from heighted alert status to full alert status,” Tuaño said

Under the full alert status, approximately 106,633 police personnel have been deployed across the country to conduct patrols and secure key areas where rallies and public gatherings are expected.

Despite the heightened security posture, the PNP clarified that it has not monitored any specific or serious threats related to Labor Day activities.

“Nananatili naman po na walang threat na natatanggap ang Philippine National Police, ganoon pa man ay tuloy ang monitoring natin in case na kinakailangan,” Tuaño added.

The PNP also emphasized that the decision to raise the alert level was not connected to any reports of recruitment for a so-called military-backed people power movement.

The full alert status took effect at 12:01 a.m. on April 30 and will remain in place until 12:01 a.m. on May 2.

Meanwhile, the PNP said it is still verifying whether local government units (LGUs) have approved rally permits for groups planning to hold demonstrations.

“Kausap po natin ngayon ang RPO ng NCRPO, bineberify pa po nila…Wala pa pong opisyal na natatanggap ang NCRPO, ganun pa man ang pagpapalagay po natin nag-apply ng permit at hindi inaksyunan ng local government units sa loob ng tatlong araw,” he said.