Tight security up in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY — Police in the Bicol region will be on full alert as tight security measures are implemented in all cemeteries, churches, transport terminals and major highways for the observance of All Saints’ Day on Wednesday and All Souls’ Day on Thursday (“Undas”).

Senior Insp. Maria Luisa Calubaquib, Bicol police spokesperson, said police assistance desks and checkpoints would be set up in key areas to “ensure the safety of all residents and visitors arriving here” for the observance of Undas.

The police assistance centers in various transport terminals will assist incoming and outgoing passengers in the cities of Naga, Legazpi and Masbate, and in Virac town in Catanduanes.

She said checkpoints would also be set up to help motorists and other visitors from other places while security checks would be strictly enforced at bus terminals and major seaports across the region.

Bicol deployment

Hundreds of policemen will also be deployed to beef up police forces in the six provinces of Bicol as part of the implementation of “Oplan Undas,” she said.

Policemen will not be allowed to go on leave and those who are on leave will be recalled and put on duty during Undas.

Calubaquib called on the public not to bring any bladed objects, liquors, portable radio stereo components and other prohibited items as police personnel deployed in cemeteries would confiscate them.

“Cops would be very strict in checking belongings brought by persons when visiting their departed relatives at the cemetery,” she said.

She also said the police “shall issue advisories to the public containing the standard operating procedures or do’s and don’ts” for the peaceful observance of Undas.