ILOILO City – Security will be tightened at 292 cemeteries, memorial parks and columbaria across Western Visayas as the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) prepares to place all its units on full alert and mobilize 6,552 personnel to safeguard anticipated visitors during the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
The massive security operation, scheduled from October 31 to November 2, will also cover major highways, transportation terminals, places of worship and tourist destinations as authorities brace for heavy crowds and increased travel during the annual Undas observance.
PRO-6 regional director Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño said the heightened security measures aim to prevent crimes, maintain public order and ensure the safety of families visiting the graves of their departed loved ones.
“Ang nais natin ay makadalaw sila nang payapa at makauwi nang ligtas,” Tuaño said.
Of the 6,552 personnel mobilized, 3,284 are police officers, 1,170 are personnel from other government agencies, and 2,098 are force multipliers who will assist in maintaining peace and order throughout the region.
The police deployment will prioritize 193 public cemeteries, 89 private cemeteries, nine memorial parks and one columbarium, where large gatherings are expected during the three-day observance.
Authorities will also establish 265 Police Assistance Desks in strategic locations to provide immediate assistance, respond to emergencies and address security concerns.
Under the deployment plan, 799 police officers will be stationed at cemeteries, memorial parks and columbaria, while 283 will secure places of worship.
Another 192 officers will be deployed along major roads, 146 at transportation hubs and 176 at tourist destinations.
Meanwhile, 718 police personnel will conduct mobile patrols, while 970 will man checkpoints along major routes to strengthen police visibility and deter criminal activities.
Tuaño emphasized that the success of the security operation would depend not only on police preparedness but also on cooperation among local government units, government agencies and the public.
“Hindi kakayanin ng kapulisan lamang ang pagpapanatili ng kaayusan. Kailangan din natin ang pakikipagtulungan ng ating mga kababayan,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, closely supervise children and elderly family members, and immediately report suspicious activities or security concerns to authorities.
The security operation will be supported by the Bureau of Fire Protection, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.
Local government personnel, traffic enforcers and Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams will also participate in the coordinated security effort.
Aside from maintaining security at burial grounds, police will intensify patrols and monitoring along major transportation routes and public areas where increased pedestrian and vehicular traffic is anticipated.
PRO-6 reminded residents to secure their homes before leaving for cemeteries, safeguard valuables and avoid leaving children and elderly companions unattended in crowded places.
Motorists were likewise advised to inspect their vehicles, particularly brakes, tires and lights, before traveling.
Drivers were also reminded to get sufficient rest, refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol and strictly observe traffic regulations and speed limits to prevent road accidents.
Residents requiring emergency assistance may approach the nearest Police Assistance Desk or police station or contact the Unified 911 emergency hotline./PN
