The Philippine National Police (PNP) is now on full alert for the coming nationwide observance of “Semana Santa†or Holy Week.
PNP chief Director General Raul Bacalzo said all PNP units nationwide have been ordered to intensify security initiatives in preparation for the upcoming Holy Week as thousands are expected to troop to the provinces for the expected long weekend.
Bacalzo said he specifically instructed police units to intensify existing checkpoints and enforce anew the PNP’s "Oplan Sita" and "Oplan Bakal" campaigns, and the Motorized Anti-Street Crime Operatives (MASCO).
He said they recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Philippine Practical Shooting Association (PPSA) and the Philippine Association of Detective and Protective Agency Operators (PADPAO) to enlist the help of security guards in terms of police visibility.
PNP spokesman Chief Supt. Agrimero Cruz said security is now beefed up at bus terminals, airports, seaports and along major highways to ensure the safety of travelers and motorists who are going home to the provinces.
Cruz said stringent security measures are now strictly observed in areas where people are expected to converge such as churches, malls, rail stations and other public establishments, including vital installations and key economic centers.
Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) will deploy its firefighters to help in maintaining peace and order, and ensuring public safety during the observance of the Holy Week.
BFP is an attached agency of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The firefighters will augment PNP personnel and other law enforcement agencies, according to BFP Director Rolando Bandilla Jr.
Bandilla’s instruction came after Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse M. Robredo directed the BFP to mobilize firefighters in time for one of the most important Catholic celebrations.
“Firefighters should assist in maintaining peace and order in local government units and in safeguarding communities from fire incidents,†said Robredo.
All BFP regional offices, provincial, city and municipal fire stations will be placed in full alert to preempt emergency situations, including fires that may occur during the culmination of the Lenten season.
Bandilla said BFP fire trucks, ambulances and rescue vans will be deployed in strategic areas specifically along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and Gapan-Olongapo Road. - PNA
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