IPPO deploys 2,187 cops for Holy Week security

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Iloilo Police Provincial Office went on full alert status Wednesday, April 1, deploying thousands of personnel to maintain peace and order through Easter Sunday, April 5.

Col. Bayani Razalan, Iloilo police chief, said IPPO will field 2,187 officers for Semana Santa duties, supplemented by 204 personnel from other law enforcement agencies and 938 members of advocacy groups and force multipliers.

A substantial number have been assigned to 75 identified places of worship, with others deployed along major thoroughfares, commercial areas, and other places of convergence.

“We will make sure to cover churches, pilgrim areas and other places of convergence,” Razalan said, adding that preparations are in place for the anticipated influx of tourists and residents at resorts and beaches.

Officers will conduct inspections at churches and other gathering spots, intensify checkpoint operations, and maintain maximum visibility through mobile patrols. Razalan said anti-criminality efforts will continue alongside the holiday security deployment.

In Iloilo City, the Iloilo City Police Office will deploy 450 personnel for Holy Week, on top of covert and other operational units.

Col. Wilbert Parilla, ICPO officer-in-charge, said security preparations are part of the Philippine National Police’s Ligtas SUMVAC 2026, a nationwide operation covering the summer vacation period from March 29 to May 31.

In coordination with the City Transportation and Traffic Management Unit, the Highway Patrol Group, and the Land Transportation Office, the ICPO will station road safety personnel along major routes and conduct inspections at bus terminals. Mobile patrol operations will be intensified, with maximum police visibility maintained at transport hubs and other key public areas.

Police Assistance Desks will be set up at churches, seaports, bus terminals, and other strategic locations to assist the public and ensure quick response to concerns.

The ICPO is asking the public to stay vigilant, secure their belongings, and report suspicious activities to the nearest officer or station. The public may also call 911 or reach ICPO hotlines at 0908-377-0194 or 335-0299.