AFP, PNP beef up security measures for Holy Week

MANILA, Philippines - The military and police are stepping up safety and defense measures to ensure a safe and peaceful Holy Week.

Armed Forces spokesman Col. Arnulfo Burgos Jr. said “proactive” defense measures will be carried out to thwart any attempt to disrupt the observance of Holy Week.

“We will continue to conduct joint security operations with other security and law enforcement agencies, particularly the Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Joint Peace and Security Coordinating Centers situated all over the country,” he said.

Burgos said the military is ready to provide manpower, intelligence, explosive and ordnance disposal teams, K9, and medical teams to policemen.

“The decision to raise alert levels rests on the AFP’s unified commanders, depending on their current assessment of the security conditions in their respective localities,” he said.

Burgos said military field commanders have been given the authority to adjust their respective alert levels when necessary.

“They are fully responsible in making necessary security adjustments to ensure that the week-long commemoration is safe and secure for our people,” he said.

The Joint Task Force National Capital Region in Camp Aguinaldo has placed on standby a battalion of soldiers to reinforce policemen.

Police in Mindanao have been placed on full alert.

PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima has ordered police nationwide to intensify security to ensure public safety   during the Holy Week.

Purisima is giving police regional directors the discretion to upgrade the level of alert in their commands, according to PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr.

Purisima has issued security and safety tips to ensure safe and secure travel of motorists and commuters.

Purisima ordered the setting up of Police Assistance Desks/Centers to ensure maximum police presence at convergence points, particularly in bus terminals, airports, seaports, train stations, recreational areas, highways and major thoroughfares.

Uniformed policemen were directed to distribute flyers on “Tips Para Makaiwas sa Krimen at Sakuna sa Semana Santa at Ngayong Summer Vacation” through the Police Community Relations Group.

Regional police commanders were instructed to coordinate with other government entities and volunteer groups for joint assistance centers for a collaborative and unified delivery of public safety services and assistance.

Police urged people leaving their houses to lock windows and doors to prevent burglars from entering.

It would be better if a burglar alarm is installed in the house, police added.

Police advised people against leaving notes to indicate that the house is unoccupied and the family is on vacation.

Better to ask a neighbor to look after the house, police added.

Motorists were reminded about “BLOW BAG” – Battery, Light, Oil, Water, Brakes, Air and Gas.