Illuminated only by candles, families go on a vigil near the resting place of where their departed loved ones in this file photo on the eve of All Saints’ Day at the Navotas City Public Cemetery. INQUIRER FILE / RAFFY LERMA
LEGAZPI CITY – Hundreds of policemen will be deployed to beef up security across the six provinces of Bicol for the observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day or “Undas” on Wednesday and Thursday.
Senior Inspector Maria Luisa Calubaquib, Bicol police spokesperson, said the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol would be on full alert as it launches “Oplan Undas.”
Tight security will be implemented with police assistance desks and checkpoints set up in all cemeteries, churches, transport terminals and major highways to secure the thousands expected to visit their departed family members.
Police will be on hand to assist incoming and outgoing passengers in various transportation hubs the cities of Naga, Legazpi, and Masbate, and in Virac town in Catanduanes.
Calubaquib said police at checkpoints would assist motorists and commuters, while other units would strictly enforce security checks in bus terminals and major seaports across the region.
Policemen are not allowed to go on leave and those on leave are being recalled for duty during the religious observance.
Calubaquib appealed to the public to not bring any bladed objects, liquor, portable radio stereo components and other prohibited items since these would be confiscated.
“Policemen will be very strict in checking belongings brought by people to the cemetery,” she said.
She said they would be issuing public advisories on the do’s and don’ts in the observance of Undas.
Calubaquib said they were closely coordinating with other government agencies and civic organizations in the implementation of the operation plan.
At the same time, she said, the police will be coordinating with the Army in securing cell sites and towers in remote villages to prevent attacks by New People’s Army rebels. /cbb