Over 7,000 cops, force multipliers deployed in Ilocos to ensure peaceful Holy Week

A lay minister blesses the “palaspas” (palm leaves) of Catholic faithfuls with holy water at the St. William Cathedral in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on Sunday, April 2. (Photo by John Michael Mugas)

LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte—More than 7,000 cops and force multipliers have been deployed to strategic areas in the Ilocos region to ensure the peace and safety of the public during the observance of Holy Week and the rest of the dry season, the Police Regional Office-1 (PRO1) said Monday, April 3.

The deployment is part of the Philippine National Police’s security plan under “Ligtas SUMVAC (Summer Vacation)” where “comprehensive security plans on traffic management and personnel deployment” have been put in place in the region.

Brig. Gen. John Chua, Ilocos regional police director, said the 7,699 police personnel and force multipliers have been assigned in places of convergence, transportation hubs, tourist destinations, and road construction areas in anticipation of the influx of motorists and tourists who will be visiting the region.

Tourist police units have also been set up in several destinations in the region to ensure the safety of visitors.

An enhanced police presence and accessible public assistance were also ordered through strengthened beat patrols, the police said.

The public is urged to cooperate with authorities and immediately report any suspicious activities or persons in their area through the PRO1 hotline at 0917-840-7783 or its social media page (Facebook page Police Regional Office 1).

The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and its local counterparts have also been placed on heightened alert during the observance of Holy Week. INQ

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