ICPO ready for Undas 2025 security operations

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) announced that it is fully prepared to provide security coverage and public assistance for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day on November 1 and 2, respectively.

Colonel Kim Legada, Iloilo City police chief, said all security plans and preparations for this year’s Undas are in place.

He said the ICPO’s operations will align with the Philippine National Police’s (PNP) national directive, “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”

“We will maximize our operations, manpower, and resources to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and meaningful observance as everyone pays tribute to their departed loved ones,” Legada said.

He added that the ICPO will implement a strategic deployment of personnel to ensure police visibility and security in all public and private cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria across the city.

Police Assistance Desks will be established in key areas to provide immediate emergency response and public assistance.

The ICPO has also coordinated with the Transportation Management and Traffic Regulation Office, barangay officials, advocacy support groups, and force multipliers to ensure effective traffic management and crowd control.

Target-hardening measures will be implemented in vital installations, while intensified police operations will be conducted to prevent crimes and maintain public safety.

Legada also reminded the public about the prohibited items and activities within cemeteries as the ICPO awaits the possible issuance of a city ordinance that will serve as the basis for enforcement.

In anticipation of the influx of travelers from October 31 to November 2, ICPO unit and station commanders have been directed to maintain round-the-clock police presence through foot and mobile patrols, checkpoints, and other preventive measures in areas with high public activity such as major highways, cemeteries, seaports, bus terminals, malls, and resorts.

“As we honor our departed loved ones, let us also maintain peace and order,” Legada said as he urged residents and visitors to be responsible, vigilant, and cooperative with police officers to ensure a safe and meaningful Undas celebration for all.

For assistance, the public may visit the nearest ICPO police station, contact the ICPO hotlines at 0908-377-0194 and (033) 335-0299, or dial 911 for emergencies.