The Philippine National Police (PNP) kicked off the “Ligtas Sumvac” 2023 campaign on Friday, March 31, to ensure the safety and security of travelers during the summer vacation and observance of the Lenten season.

PNP Chief Police Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said the annual summer holiday begins at the onset of the summer season in April which marks the observance of the Holy Week in the first week and onwards to the season of feast in May highlighted by the Flores de Mayo.

“We are expecting a large number of people to travel especially during the Holy Week and we want to make sure that they will have a safe and enjoyable experience,” Azurin said.

As part of the Ligtas Sumvac 2023, the PNP ordered police units and stations nationwide to intensify checkpoint operations, and conduct regular inspections and mobile patrols to ensure maximum police presence in crowded places such as bus terminals, seaports, airports, and other transport hubs.

Azurin also instructed regional and provincial police offices to activate their contingency plans and maximize the deployment of personnel through “Tourist Police Units” in their areas of responsibility in coordination with local government units (LGUs), local tourism councils, and the Department of Tourism (DOT).

Meanwhile, travelers were reminded to be vigilant and immediately coordinate with the authorities if they spot any suspicious activity.

“We call on the public to cooperate with us and follow the rules and regulations set by the government to deter the occurrence of crimes,” Azurin said.

Azurin previously announced that nearly 78,000 police officers will be deployed to tourist spots and usual places of convergence during the Lenten season and summer vacation.

A total of 38,387 cops will man assistance hubs (AHs) and police assistance desks (PADs) for beat and foot patrols. An additional 39,504 officers will also be fielded in major thoroughfares, transportation hubs, terminals, commercial areas, and places of worship.