Bicol: The Police Regional Office 5 (PRO-5) has heightened its alert status to ensure peace and order across the region during the observance of Holy Week, an official said Monday.
According to Philippines News Agency, PRO-5 acting director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda stated that the police's operational strategy focuses on securing areas of convergence such as churches, seaports, airports, bus terminals, public markets, and major tourist destinations. "Police Assistance Desks (PADs) have been established in key convergence areas to provide immediate public assistance, emergency coordination, lost-and-found services, medical referral support, and real-time incident reporting. These desks are manned by trained personnel capable of handling both routine inquiries and emergencies," Miranda said in a statement.
Miranda emphasized that the police force is fully prepared not only to maintain peace and order but also to ensure that all contingencies are addressed through strengthened operational planning, disciplined deployment, and sustained visibility operations. Crowd Management and Response Initiatives teams will be deployed in anticipation of large religious gatherings and pilgrimages to ensure orderly crowd flow, prevent stampedes or overcrowding, and provide immediate assistance during religious processions and major events, he added.
In addition, Quick Reaction Forces remain on standby in all provincial offices and major urban areas to ensure immediate deployment during emergencies or security incidents. PRO-5 has also activated enhanced communication and interoperability systems to ensure seamless coordination between regional headquarters, provincial offices, mobile units, and partner agencies.
Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office in Bicol Region (LTO-5) continues to intensify inspections, monitor terminals, and extend assistance to motorists. LTO-5 Regional Director Allan Castillejos mentioned that the measures are part of efforts to ensure public safety and security throughout the Holy Week, with LTO-5 personnel on the ground to help manage traffic conditions and ensure that all vehicles are safe for travel. Castillejos reminded everyone to drive responsibly, follow traffic rules, and stay alert throughout the period.
