MANILA, Philippines – Manila police surprised commuters using public buses and the LRT Line 1 by giving them roses on Valentine’s Day.
Members of the Manila Police District’s (MPD) Special Weapons and Tactics unit gave around 500 red roses to women.
Meanwhile, officers from the MPD District Public Safety Batallion (PSB) who are serving as bus marshals also gave roses to passengers.
Senior Superintendent Nelson Yabut said the activity aims to help change police image and tell the public that police officers not only protect them but also care for ordinary people.
Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief made rounds in Metro Manila on Monday to inspect places traditionally frequented by the public during Valentine's Day.
Police Director Nicanor Bartolome inspected the Metro Railway Transit and Light Railway Transit systems, bus terminals, malls, and key business establishments after a meeting with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) officials.
Bartolome earlier ordered the 5 district directors of NCRPO to inspect their respective areas of responsibilities to ensure a peaceful celebration of Valentine's Day.
Police officers were also deployed in hotels and concert venues where local and foreign artists are performing.
"We expect a lot of people to be out and about today to celebrate Valentine's Day, so we want to make sure that the places where celebrations are held are safe and secure," Bartolome said in a statement.
"Our target is to ensure safety and security, while at the same time minimizing the impact of the inspections on our commuters," he added.
