9,000 cops deployed in Metro Manila for Holy Week

MANILA, Philippines — Over 9,000 personnel of the National Capital Region Police Office have been deployed across Metro Manila to secure the observance of Holy Week, the NCRPO announced yesterday.

Maj. Hazel Asilo, spokesperson for the NCRPO, said the deployment started as police went on full alert at 12:01 a.m.

“Our personnel are on the ground for the start of Holy Week and the summer vacation. We have more than 9,000 deployed to secure our countrymen,” Asilo said in an interview over dzMM.

She said police assistance desks have been set up in areas of convergence, including churches, major thoroughfares, bus terminals and airports.

At least 329 places of worship in Metro Manila are being monitored by police, Asilo said.

“These areas are manned by uniformed police personnel, along with our force multipliers, to ensure that the public can easily seek assistance,” Asilo said.

She said police would remain on alert until the end of the summer vacation, with additional personnel to be deployed if necessary.

Authorities also intensified police visibility operations, such as mobile patrol cars and motorcycle units, to deter crime.

Asilo cautioned the public that criminals may take advantage of large crowds during religious activities.

Police, according to Asilo, are also deploying non-uniformed personnel to monitor potential security threats.

For emergencies, the public may call police hotline 911, which provides assistance around the clock.

Asilo urged residents leaving their homes for the Holy Week break to secure their properties and coordinate with neighbors or barangay officials.

She said police officers, including those assigned in the barangays, would conduct roving patrols to ensure community safety.

“All our personnel are on full alert. There are no leaves at this time,” Asilo said.