Security heightened for martial law anniversary in Butuan

SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur— The Butuan City Police Office (BCPO) intensified its security measures and community engagement activities as the country observes the Martial Law anniversary on Monday.

Colonel Richie Yatar, BCPO director, said the heightened security posture aims to ensure public safety while respecting the people’s right to peaceful expression and assembly.

The BCPO conducted police visibility patrols, barangay dialogues, and information campaigns through radio broadcasts, social media platforms, and direct community engagement to promote historical awareness and maintain peace and order.

Article continues after this advertisement

READ: PNP on alert as protests commemorate martial law

Assistance desks and quick response teams were also deployed in key areas to address public concerns during the observance.

The city’s various community police stations also strengthened their respective security measures, including heightened police visibility in strategic areas, security checks, and monitoring.

Lt. Col. Joseph Gementiza, Butuan City Police Station 3 officer-in-charge, said the security measures were intended to protect the public and support the peaceful observance of the anniversary.

“We respect every citizen’s right to observe this significant date in our nation’s history — whether through remembrance, dialogue, or peaceful protest,” Gementiza said.

He added that police personnel were instructed to exercise maximum tolerance, uphold human rights standards, and maintain professionalism in dealing with the public./coa