PNP steps up visibility in major transport hubs as Holy Week exodus begins
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped security measures in major transportation hubs in Metro Manila and other parts of the country as more people started traveling to their home provinces for the Holy Week.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said chiefs of police and other units like the Highway Patrol Group, the Maritime Group and Aviation Security Group were already instructed to intensify the coordination with other agencies concerned in terms of safety and security of the passengers.
“The increased police presence on the road, churches, transportation hubs and other places of convergence is intended to provide maximum security and assistance to all our kababayan,” PGEN Nartatez.
“Our mandate is to serve and protect. We will keep it that way especially at this time of the year when people need the peace and mind for reflection,” he added.
Nartatez said the increased police presence in transportation hubs and other places of religious convergence is part of the heightened alert status which took effect on March 29, in time for Palm Sunday.
Around 2.4 million are expected to flock to various sea ports across the country while airport authorities said they expect around 1.3 million passengers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport for the entire Holy Week break.
Nartatez said the security measures would ensure safe and orderly travel for millions of Filipinos observing the Semana Santa, including the roads leading to and from major transportation hubs.
He emphasized that while security is tight, the goal is to keep the flow of people moving.
“Travelers can expect tight but efficient security screening. Our kababayan can also expect Police Assistance Desks (PADs) for quick and reliable response to all the requests for assistance of the travelers,” said PGEN Nartatez.
President Marcos earlier underscored the need for a "whole-of-government" approach to ensure a peaceful observation of the Holy Week .
On major roads, the PNP is also bracing for the heavy volume of private vehicles hitting the expressways and national highways.
Nartatez said road safety remains a top priority as historical data shows an uptick in vehicular accidents during the long weekend.
He also reminded the public that safety starts with individual responsibility and urged motorists to double-check their vehicles before heading out for a long drive.