Central Luzon: With Holy Week drawing thousands of travelers and pilgrims, the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3) rolled out increased security measures across the region to ensure a safe and peaceful observance. From April 13 to 20, over 1,000 police officers are on duty throughout Central Luzon, according to PRO-3 Director Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo.

According to Philippines News Agency, Brig. Gen. Fajardo highlighted the significant increase in people using transport hubs and visiting churches and pilgrimage sites every year during Holy Week, especially on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. To address this, Fajardo has ordered the full deployment of the police force and the activation of support units to maintain community safety.

PRO-3 is collaborating with local volunteers, including the Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams and local radio groups, to expedite emergency responses and enhance overall situational awareness. Residents will notice more police presence on foot and in patrol cars as part of efforts to deter crime.

Police assistance desks and centers are established in busy areas, with road safety marshals stationed at major transportation hubs such as bus terminals, airports, and seaports, as well as along highways and in popular tourist and recreational spots. Anticipating the start of Holy Week activities, police personnel were deployed as early as Palm Sunday to secure churches and other places of worship throughout the region.

Brig. Gen. Fajardo emphasized that Holy Week is a deeply spiritual time for many, and as law enforcement, their priority is to ensure that everyone can observe this tradition peacefully, safely, and with the solemnity it deserves.