PNP-HPG personnel conduct surprise inspection on passenger buses in one on the transportation hubs in Metro Manila on Monday, April 14, 2025 as part of the safety measures for the Holy Week exodus. (photo: PNP-HPG)
The Highway Patrol Group of the Philippine National Police (PNP-HPG) has deployed around 840 of its personnel for traffic management and road emergency assistance as millions of motorists are expected to troop to the provinces for the long Holy Week break.
HPG director Brig. Gen. Eleazar P. Matta said the deployment was also aimed at ensuring maximum police visibility following the instruction from the PNP leadership to maximize the presence of policemen on the roads and in various places of convergence for the Lenten break.
“This is in anticipation of the high volume of travelers and motorists during the Holy Week as part of the PNP’s strategic operations to maintain public safety and ensure smooth traffic flow,” said Matta.
“Our mission this Holy Week is clear — to provide maximum police visibility and immediate assistance to ensure a peaceful and safe observance for all. The HPG stands ready to guide, protect, and serve the public as they travel to their destinations,” he added.
Aside from major thoroughfares, Matta said the public should expect the presence of HPG personnel in commercial areas, transportation hubs, places of worship and other convergence zones.
HPG spokesperson Lt. Nadame Malang said a total of 117 personnel were deployed to 79 commercial areas while 226 personnel to 108 transportation hubs and terminals. He said 61 personnel were deployed to 53 places of worship and 105 more HPG men to 54 other identified convergence areas.
The largest contingent with 225 HPG personnel, he said, will be in 91 major thoroughfares nationwide.
“With thousands expected to hit the roads for religious pilgrimage, family gatherings, and vacation travel, the PNP-HPG's proactive presence is aimed at preventing vehicular accidents, deterring criminal activity, and assisting motorists in distress,” said Malang.
More than 40,000 policemen were mobilized nationwide to secure the observance of the Holy Week, including the travel of millions of Filipinos.