POLICE expect an influx of passengers at bus terminals and sea ports starting today as residents of municipalities start traveling to their hometowns.
Beginning noon yesterday, Cebu Provincial Police Chief Erson Digal deployed two teams from the Special Reaction Unit (SRU) at the Cebu South Bus Terminal. They were an additional force to the team of police officers sent there earlier to help the terminal’s guards in their security efforts.
He also said two trained dogs from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency will be on guard at the entrances of the terminal to inspect bags.
At the Hagnaya Wharf in San Remigio, which is where boats going to Bantayan Island are anchored, a team from the SRU has also been deployed.
The Hagnaya Wharf is expected to be the busiest port this season, as many people spend their holidays on the island.
Digal urged those who will be going to their hometowns to pack light to speed up bag inspection.
Police will inspect bags for contraband.
He also reminded parents to keep an eye on their children so they won’t get lost in the crowd.
Cebu Province was placed on heightened alert while police chiefs were instructed to be vigilant, especially in areas that have small ports where criminal elements can inconspicuously enter.
He is also asking homeowners who plan to spend their Lenten holidays out of town to make sure their homes are well-secured.
If they don’t invest in quality locks, he suggested leaving someone behind to make sure someone watches over the house.
Digal said that last year, they noted some burglary incidents that occurred during Holy Week.