Philippine National Police headquarters in Camp Crame
MANILA, Philippines 鈥� The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday said public safety was its top priority after four hostage-taking cases took place in a month.
鈥淥ur police forces have demonstrated exceptional dedication in handling these life-threatening situations with utmost professionalism,鈥� the PNP said in a statement.
鈥淭he safety of our citizens remains our top priority, and we will continue to strengthen our strategies in crisis response and law enforcement to prevent similar incidents from happening,鈥� it added.
READ: Law enforcers save child from hostage taker in Taytay, Rizal
Between January 20 and February 18, four聽hostage-taking cases were recorded in Taytay town, Rizal; Digos City, Davao del Sur; Manila; and Lipa City, Batangas.
READ: Man takes saleslady hostage in Lipa City mall
鈥淧olice operatives responded with urgency, securing the release of hostages and filing appropriate charges against the perpetrators,鈥� the PNP explained.
鈥淥verall, these events are merely isolated incidents and do not reflect the general state of peace and order in the country, as they are neither the work of organized crime nor a sign of a worsening problem,鈥� it added.