The Philippine National Police (PNP) has deployed over 65,000 personnel nationwide in preparation for the upcoming Holy Week this year.

In a Palace briefing on Tuesday, PNP Information Chief Col. Randulf Tuaño said that these personnel will be deployed to key convergence areas, including transport hubs, churches, houses of worship, transportation terminals, and tourist destinations.

“This is stated in our guidelines... to have an enhanced police presence or make the Philippine National Police visible. We will also augment patrols because our concentration is on highly populated areas,” he said in Filipino, adding that their force will also focus on subdivisions, as residents are expected to leave their homes.

No threats as of now

Tuaño said their force has not received any threats concerning security and safety for this Lenten season. He, however, assured that the force will remain on “full alert, especially in historically vulnerable areas.”

“Our intelligence units are closely coordinating with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, including the Philippine Coast Guard, to preempt any threats from groups that may want to cause disorder in our country,” he added.

Meanwhile, regarding vital installations, the police official said they have also increased the deployment of personnel around power plants, communication infrastructure, and transportation terminals, and ensured coordination with private security groups and local management councils.

These actions, he said, are in accordance with their mandate to ensure a safe, peaceful, and meaningful observance of Holy Week.