PNP to deploy almost 78,000 police personnel for Holy Week, ‘summer’ break

FILE PHOTO: Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr., PNP chief. (Photo from the Facebook page of the Office of the Chief PNP)

MANILA, Philippines — Almost 78,000 police personnel will be deployed in commercial areas, transportation hubs, terminals, and places of worship to ensure public safety throughout the Holy Week and summer break, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Friday.

The PNP said it has already launched its annual “Ligtas Sumvac (Summer Vacation) 2023 campaign” in preparation for the expected influx of visitors and tourists nationwide.

“[A] total of 38,387 officers will be deployed for enhanced police presence through mobile and foot or beat patrol, while an additional 39,504 officers will be deployed for specific areas of convergence,” the police said in a statement.

The deployed personnel will assist PNP’s assistance hubs and desks in helping the public address their concerns and complaints.

Aside from deploying officers, the PNP said that it would intensify its checkpoint operations and will direct its police regional offices to conduct regular inspections and mobile patrols in crowded areas.

“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,” said PNP chief Police General Rodolfo Azurin Jr.

Azurin also assured that all PNP personnel were adequately trained and briefed on the conduct of safe police operations.

“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,” the PNP chief said.

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