MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its presence at key travel and worship locations nationwide as the Holy Week holiday season begins, the agency said Monday.
This enhanced alert, which commenced on Palm Sunday, covers terminals, ports, and churches, ensuring that commuters and worshippers can travel safely.
“Our officers are deployed across roads, terminals, and public gathering areas to provide maximum security and assistance to our kababayan,” PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.
Officials expect about 2.4 million passengers at seaports and around 1.3 million travelers passing through Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) this week.
Gen. Nartatez assured that while security measures will be strict, they will remain efficient.
“Travelers should expect thorough yet smooth screening procedures,” he said.
Authorities are also bracing for heavy traffic on major highways and expressways during the peak travel period.
Meanwhile, the PNP continues to monitor essential goods prices in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry and local governments to curb unauthorized price surges.
“Several individuals have already been apprehended for illegal price hikes, and we will continue to take action to protect consumers,” Nartatez stated.
Army support
The Philippine Army confirmed it is on standby to assist the PNP in ensuring a peaceful observance of Holy Week.
“Our personnel are dedicated to the safety and security of communities as Filipinos mark this religious season,” Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said.
Dema-ala declined to reveal details on troop deployment but noted that there is no current directive for the Army to enter full “red alert” status.
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