MANILA, Dec. 7 ? The expectations of a zero crime rate were met as the Philippine National Police reported that no incidents occurred during the one-hour telecast of the much anticipated “Dream Match” between People’s Champ Manny Pacquiao and the Goldenboy Oscar Dela Hoya. PNP Spokesman Chief Superintendent Nicanor A Bartolome said that the zero crime rate has been a trend during Pacquiao’s boxing matches based on recent and previous statistics. He also mentioned that there was a reduction in traffic in major areas in Metro Manila compared to other Sundays. “It was expected that there will be no reported crime incidents during the match and traffic will be reduced most especially in major roads. Perhaps even criminal elements were also busy in watching the fight. But rest assured that the PNP will not let its guard down for any occurrences that may happen after the fight,” Bartolome stated. Meanwhile, PNP Chief Director General Jesus A Verzosa expressed his satisfaction over Pacquiao’s triumph over Dela Hoya and ordered local police units to remain vigilant in the midst of the celebration of Pacquiao’s victory. “The PNP is one with the whole country in congratulating Manny Pacquiao for his significant triumph over Oscar Dela Hoya. Once again, he has given the country a huge honor and this is indeed a reason to celebrate but I am reminding our PNP personnel to remain on guard for criminal elements who may take advantage of the situation,” Verzosa emphasized.
