Manila Police District (MPD) Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay inspected bus terminals and churches in Manila on Thursday, March 28, as Catholic devotees continued their exodus to their provinces and practice the time-honored Visita Iglesia.

Ibay talked to the assigned personnel at the police assistance desks (PADs) in the bus terminals and churches to provide additional directives.

"Huwag kayong uupo lang, kailangan nakatayo tayo. Tapos dapat mayroong megaphone kasi mas makakapagbigay kayo ng instruction (Don't just sit, we have to stand and there should be a megaphone so we can give instructions better)," he said.

He also ensured that churches had set up health stations in case of medical emergencies.

In Intramuros, Ibay directed the police-in-charge to deploy additional personnel in the area due to the influx of tourists and devotees flocking to the Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church.

Several devotees were also seen flocking to churches in Malate, Pandacan, San Andres, and Tondo.

He said vehicles, especially motorcycles, should give way to devotees conducting the Visita Iglesia.

Tourists and devotees were also advised to bring umbrellas, towels, and bottled water amid the prevailing warm temperature.

Ibay said that elements of the MPD should be walking around the vicinity so people can easily find them if they have questions or concerns.

He told the policemen to prepare for the procession of the Black Nazarene on Friday. He said heavy traffic is expected and advised motorists to use alternate routes to avoid traffic congestion.

The MPD director also checked the situation at the bus terminals in Sampaloc.

Ibay asked the marshals to be alert and check the bus thoroughly before letting the passengers in.

He said no untoward incident has been reported as of this writing.