By Jennifer P. Rendon
More police officers will be deployed in Western Visayas for Holy Week 2023.
From 1,700 officers in 2022, this year’s Holy Week will see 2,332 cops on duty.
The Police Regional Office (PRO)-6 said Tuesday that most of these officers will be deployed to tourist sites.
Others will be assigned to keep watch on places of worship, convergence areas, major roads, and pilgrimage sites.
Brigadier General Leo Francisco, Western Visayas police chief, said PRO-6 has already laid out its plans to ensure the orderly and peaceful observance of the Lenten Season.
It also coordinated plans with law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups to ensure that peace and order will be maintained.
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and different units from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) will deploy around 764 personnel.
On the other hand, 2,808 force multipliers will be deployed to different Holy Week destinations.
Francisco had earlier instructed all PNP units across the region to operationalize their security and public safety plans and measures.
Among others, cops were told to inspect places of worship and other areas of convergence.
Police were also instructed to intensify checkpoint operations and heighten the conduct of mobile patrols and ensure maximum presence in places of convergence.
They are also expected to collaborate with all concerned law enforcement agencies, local government units and private security providers, and other force multipliers.
Cops will also be present in areas with ongoing road construction/rehabilitation to assist in traffic management.
PRO-6 will also establish Assistance Hubs (AHs) along major thoroughfares, and Police Assistance Desks (PADs).
Senior police officers have also been assigned as Red Team supervisors in the different provincial and city police offices.
“Our goal here is to deter lawless elements from preying on the public. I hope everyone will cooperate,” Francisco said.
The region’s top cop said they would still continue with their anti-criminality efforts even in the midst of Holy Week observance.
Meanwhile, Francisco asked the public, especially those who will be travelling and leaving their homes unattended, to ensure that these are securely locked and their appliances unplugged.
He also reminded motorists to ensure that their vehicles are in good condition.
