The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Good Friday said it has recorded a total of 28 cases of drowning, fire, and vehicular accidents amid the observance of Holy Week so far.
In a statement, the PNP said 16 of these cases were drowning incidents in different regions and two vehicular accidents in Metro Manila and Cagayan Valley.
Three fire incidents were reported in Metro Manila, Eastern Visayas, and Zamboanga Peninsula as well as one case of arson in Negros Island Region.
Police units in close coordination with concerned agencies responded promptly to the reported incidents, according to the PNP.
Despite these incidents, the PNP said the observance of Holy Week has been generally peaceful so far.
A total of 68,465 police personnel were deployed across the country to secure the occasion.
The PNP said millions of Filipinos are expected to travel and congregate in churches, pilgrimage sites, transport terminals, beaches, commercial centers, and other public areas during the Holy Week.
Due to this, the PNP said it has intensified its presence and operations in the following areas nationwide:
- 19,120 personnel assigned to places of worship
- 18,283 to major thoroughfares
- 8,711 to transportation hubs and terminals
- 10,125 to commercial areas
- 12,226 to other areas of convergence such as tourist spots and recreational sites
PNP chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil reaffirmed the organization’s full commitment to ensuring public safety throughout the Holy Week and the rest of the summer season.
“The PNP stands ready to protect and serve our countrymen during this sacred observance. We call on the public to remain vigilant, practice safety measures, and immediately report any untoward incidents to the nearest police station,” he said.
Marbil said the PNP adhered to the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who emphasized the importance of proactive and people-focused public service, especially during significant national events and holidays.
The PNP urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement personnel on the ground and maintain peaceful and orderly behavior in all areas of activity during the Holy Week. —VAL, GMA Integrated News
