MANILA — On Tuesday night, April 7, the cities of Pasig, Pasay, and Taguig participated in the Simultaneous Anti-Criminality Law Enforcement Operation (SACLEO), which resulted in the capture and arrest of over 1,000 people.

The operation was in response to the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) order to step up enforcement of traffic infractions and local ordinances as part of the “Safer Metro Manila” project.

Authorities in Pasig City’s Barangay Pinagbuhatan apprehended 604 people. One of them was a man who was stopped by the police before he had even finished his cigarette.
“Kamot na naman ulo, ingat na lang. Mahirap tigilan eh… Sakit sa bulsa,” the man, who faces community service or a P3,000 fine, remarked.

The Eastern Police District’s (EPD) District Director, Brig. Gen. Aden Lagradante, claims that this is not a “ningas-kugon.”

He declared, “We will continue and we will sustain the effort.”

The majority of people detained broke the statute prohibiting topless public wandering, loud videoke, and street drinking.

Approximately 136 people were detained in Pasay City as part of the ongoing Oplan Bulabog.

The chief of the Pasay City Police, Col. Joselito De Sesto, stated that the arrests were made for violating the anti-drug law, having an arrest warrant, and breaking curfew and gaming laws.

Despite catching 272 people in their Oplan Galugad and Oplan Sita, the Taguig City Police did not make any arrests.

Eighty-eight individuals were found to be under the influence of alcohol.

Approximately 59 children were found going topless outside the house, while about 67 minors broke curfew. 40 persons were seen smoking in public areas.

Police authorities assured the public that the operations will continue in the coming weeks as part of sustained efforts to maintain peace and order in the capital.

The PNP stressed that individuals who are unable to pay the fines are required to perform community service or clean up their local barangays.