1,700 cops to be deployed for Holy Week duties

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Around 1,700 policemen will be deployed all over Western Visayas for the Holy Week on April 10-17, 2022.

The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) said Thursday that it already laid out its plans to ensure the orderly and peaceful observance of the Lenten Season.

Brigadier General Flynn Dongbo, Western Visayas police chief, has instructed all PNP units across the region to implement this early their security and public safety plans and measures.

Aside from the regular police routine, the 1,700 officers are expected to render duties relative to observance of the Holy Week.

The local police will be tapping other force multipliers in the conduct of anti-criminality efforts.

With ease in travel restrictions amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Dongbo said they expect tourists – both local and foreign – will flock to churches, resorts, malls, terminals, and other public places.

The region’s top cop said unit commanders will deploy its personnel in identified strategic areas to prevent the occurrence of crimes.

“Our heightened police visibility is to deter lawless elements from preying on the public,” he said.

Dongbo said random checkpoints and mobile and detective patrols will be conducted as well.

Police Assistance Desks will also be established in public areas.

“Our police would conduct other crime prevention endeavors to ensure a peaceful and orderly celebration of the Holy Week,” he said.

Dongbo said they have also prepared for traffic congestion in some identified areas.

The region’s top cop also appealed to the public, especially to those who will be travelling and leaving their homes unattended, to ensure that these are securely locked and their appliances unplugged.

Dongbo has also warned against posting of their real-time activities over social media.

“Also, during travel, they must ensure that their vehicles are in good condition,” he said.

Dongbo also advised travelers to secure the contact numbers of rescue groups, the Bureau of Fire Protection station, and nearby police units should there be a need for these agencies’ assistance.

“It is our goal that everyone will enjoy and be safe during the entire holy week celebration,” Dongbo said.