Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has rolled out intensified clearing operations on major roads and highways to ensure unimpeded travel this Holy Week, focusing on removing obstructions and maintaining steady traffic flow for millions of motorists. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police force is fully mobilized to support the government's 'zero obstruction' policy.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PNP's efforts are not limited to maintaining peace and order but also extend to responding to emergency cases involving public safety. Gen. Nartatez emphasized that during this time of the year, police personnel are prepared to ensure smooth and safe travel for everyone. Enhanced police visibility will be evident along key thoroughfares, including major routes like the Maharlika Highway, Manila North Road, and Manila South Road, which often experience congestion during long holidays.

Local police forces have been instructed to coordinate with officials down to the barangay level to remove obstructions and install appropriate warning signs in accident-prone areas. The PNP is also working closely with local governments and communities to address common roadside hazards, including illegal structures and unsafe practices such as drying crops along highways.

Gen. Nartatez highlighted that the PNP has implemented similar measures during major travel seasons, such as Holy Week and Christmas, to ensure traffic direction, control, and emergency response systems are ready and fully activated. For the Holy Week, the PNP has deployed 98,636 personnel to ensure peace and order, sustain police visibility, and support clearing operations on major roads and highways. This effort is supported by 12,507 personnel from other agencies and 37,050 force multipliers.