Some 220 policemen of Navotas City Police Station (NCPS) will be deployed to secure churches and other religious sites during the observance of Holy Week on April 2 to 9.
The city has organized a security and traffic management plan to secure areas near the city churches and chapels where religious activities are set to take place.
"Navotas is home to a number of parish and quasi-parishes, chapels, and other places of worship," the city government said.
Among the city churches are Santo Niño de Pasion de Navotas and Diocesan Shrine and Parish of San Jose de Navotas, which is the oldest church in the city. Both were declared religious tourism sites by the city government.
“Amidst all the activities during the Holy Week, we remind and encourage all Navoteños to be cautious and still follow minimum public health standards to remain safe from sickness or any untoward incidents. Also, keep out of the sun and stay hydrated,” Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco said.
“Semana Santa is a time for spiritual reflection and renewal for many Filipinos. We want them to do their pilgrimage and devout undertakings without worries,” he added.
He said the NCPS officers have vowed to maintain peace and order in the weeklong celebration from Palm to Easter Sunday.
The city government also announced the closure of some roads in the city to avoid traffic congestion and road mishaps.
“We expect an influx of churchgoers and the faithful on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, especially in Brgy. Bangkulasi where the Bahay ng Mahal na Señor is located. Tourists also flock the area to witness devotees practice penitensya,” Tiangco said.
He said M. Naval Street and North Bay Boulevard -- from C4 Road to Lapu-Lapu Avenue -- will be closed from 6 p.m. on April 6 to 7 p.m. on April 7.
Motorists are advised to take Radial Road 10 as an alternate route.