The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday began a soft deployment of personnel across the country in preparation for the expected surge of travelers and cemetery visitors during the upcoming All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

PNP Chief P/Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said the soft deployment allows police units to gradually position personnel and resources to manage traffic, maintain public order, and provide assistance ahead of the peak travel period.

“We have started our soft deployment of police personnel nationwide to ensure that our presence is already felt as early as now. This proactive measure aims to ensure smoother coordination and preparedness before the expected influx of travelers later this week,” he stressed.

According to Nartatez, the PNP has placed all units on heightened alert from 29 October to 3 November, requiring an increased level of readiness to respond to emergencies and incidents nationwide.

The police chief also said around 50,000 personnel will be deployed this year, up from 32,000 in 2024, to ensure a safe and orderly observance of Undas. They will be supported by 16,592 personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard, along with 45,712 force multipliers.

Nartatez emphasized that the visible police presence is meant to reassure the public rather than intimidate them. “Our presence should give comfort and peace of mind to the public. My directive to our troops on the ground is simple: be visible, be courteous, and be ready to assist,” he said.

Regional and provincial directors have been instructed to activate operational plans in coordination with local government units and other agencies. Checkpoints, police assistance desks, and mobile patrols will operate 24/7 throughout the long weekend.

Nartatez reminded all police personnel to maintain professionalism, particularly when interacting with senior citizens and cemetery visitors.