Zamboanga: The Police Regional Office (PRO) 9 in the Zamboanga Peninsula has mobilized over 2,000 personnel to ensure a peaceful, safe, and orderly observance of Undas 2025 across the region, an official announced.
According to Philippines News Agency, PRO-9 Director Brig. Gen. Eleazar Matta stated that they have implemented a comprehensive security and assistance plan covering 226 cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria. The deployment includes 807 police officers, 490 other government uniformed personnel, and 877 force multipliers to maintain peace and assist the public. Matta emphasized the readiness of the personnel to safeguard the public and ensure the peaceful observance of Undas.
In addition to cemetery security, 93 Motorist Assistance Centers (MACs) have been established on major routes and convergence points. These centers are manned by 167 police personnel and 143 uniformed partners to ensure safe and efficient travel. Security measures have also been enhanced at 47 bus terminals, 29 seaports, and five airports to ensure constant police presence and rapid response to any incidents.
Matta assured the public of PRO-9’s preparedness and highlighted the strong police presence throughout the region. He urged the public to remain vigilant, adhere to safety protocols, and cooperate with authorities by reporting any suspicious activities or incidents.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in Zamboanga Peninsula (PDEA-9) reported that 27 drivers and a porter tested positive for illegal drug use during a surprise drug test conducted across the region. PDEA-9 Director Bryan Babang stated that the test, which involved 1,259 drivers, was part of the preparations for Undas 2025, as passenger volumes are expected to rise when people visit their departed loved ones.
Babang noted that the initiative, dubbed Oplan Harabas, aims to ensure that public utility drivers are not under the influence of illegal drugs. Of the 27 who tested positive, 13 are from Zamboanga City, seven from Zamboanga del Sur, six from Zamboanga Sibugay, and one from Zamboanga del Norte. The individuals who tested positive include a van driver, a porter, and several tricycle drivers. Babang clarified that the results are subject to confirmatory testing before any action is taken against those found positive for illegal drug use.
