AROUND 460 policemen and force multipliers from the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) will be deployed throughout the city during the Holy Week.

Lieutenant Colonel Franco Rudolf Oriol, deputy chief of operations and spokesperson of MCPO, told reporters on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, that they are now preparing for the deployment process.

Oriol said about 210 policemen and 250 force multipliers, which include barangay tanods and traffic personnel, will be assigned to provide security in malls, ports, terminals, and the 10 churches in the city.

Among the churches are the National Shrine of St. Joseph Parish in Barangay Centro, San Roque Parish in Barangay Subangdaku, Fatima church in Barangay Basak, and the Holy Family church in Barangay Maguikay.

Oriol said the modernized public utility jeepney (MPUJ) terminal in Parkmall will also be guarded to ensure the safety of passengers.

Oriol said the start of the deployment will be on Holy Wednesday, April 5, 2023, until Easter Sunday, April 9, 2023.

A 24-hour security will be provided.

Oriol said at least 30 police officers will be stationed in the National Shrine of St. Joseph, while six to 10 officers would be assigned in smaller churches.

Oriol reminded the public to be more vigilant against snatchers and pickpockets.

He also urged the motorists to cooperate with the authorities at checkpoints.

In 2022, the MCPO had not recorded any crime incidents during the Holy Week observance. (HIC)