MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) has not monitored any threats since the Holy Week started, according to its chief Benjamin Abalos Jr.
Abalos expressed confidence that this year’s observance will be generally peaceful after announcing that about 52,000 police and Bureau of Fire Protection personnel were dispatched nationwide to ensure the safety of travelers.
“So far, there are no threats. Don’t worry; PNP Chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. and NCRPO Brigadier General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. are here. They can attest that there are no threats,” the DILG chief said on the sidelines of their inspection at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX).
READ: PNP: No serious threats seen ahead of Holy Week
He added that authorities have inspected terminals and transportation hubs within Metro Manila with about 74 policemen manning the PITX.
Two firetrucks are also on standby in case of emergency, and 14 fire officers and 25 BFP personnel manage the first-aid station.
Furthermore, Acorda assured the public that despite the absence of any threats, police officers are deployed in major terminals for land, sea, and air transportation to prevent any untoward incidents.
He noted that 12,000 police personnel were deployed in various areas of Metro Manila alone.
Meanwhile, BFP dispatched 28,000 fire personnel for the Holy Week, with 3,080 firetrucks nationwide stationed in major thoroughfares and 38 first-aid stations in key areas of the metropolis.