All set for Holy Week: NCRPO to deploy over 11,000 cops, force multipliers in Metro Manila

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be deploying more than 11,000 policemen and force multipliers to secure Metro Manila for the Holy Week and the entire summer vacation.

NCRPO chief Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said the deployment will start before the expected exodus of people from Metro Manila to their respective hometowns and vacation places, as well as the expected arrival of people visiting the metropolis before the end of this month.

“We will be intensifying our efforts to ensure the safety and security of the public during this period of increased travel and religious activities. Comprehensive measures will be implemented to address the unique challenges posed by the convergence of Holy Week observance from March 25 to 31, 2024, and the onset of the summer vacation from April 1 to May 31, 2024,” said Nartatez.

“Many of our citizens and returning Overseas Filipinos are expected to return to their hometowns to observe the Holy Week and celebrate fiestas resulting in the congestion of roads, transportation hubs, airports, and seaports,” he added.

Nartatez said he also instructed police commanders to coordinate with local government units (LGUs), other law enforcement agencies, and private stakeholders to establish a comprehensive security framework.

The focus is to establish information-sharing mechanisms and joint operations, which he said, will be paramount to maintaining a vigilant and responsive security machinery.

On the aspect of traffic jams and congestion of people in public places, Nartatez said the NCRPO will implement traffic management strategies in coordination with concerned agencies.

This includes the deployment of personnel to critical traffic points and the establishment of Police Assistance Desks (PADs) to provide support and assistance for travelers across the region.

“We assure the public that the security measures are designed to promote a safe and secure environment for all citizens and visitors. As the nation observes these significant occasions, the NCRPO stands ready to uphold its duty to maintain law and order,” said Nartatez.

“But we encourage the public to cooperate, remain vigilant, and report suspicious activities, individuals, or groups to law enforcement authorities,” he added. — Aaron Recuenco

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