THE top official of Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) has ordered maximum police presence in cemeteries and key areas across the region for the observance of the All Saints and All Souls day.
PRO-Northern Mindanao Director Timoteo Pacleb has also instructed all deployed personnel to be visible in all police assistance hubs.
More than 5,000 policemen have been deployed to ensure public safety and security for those who will visit the graves of their departed loved ones.
These personnel are positioned in 239 cemeteries, churches, transport terminals, public plazas, malls, beach resorts and other places of convergence during the weekend.
The region's top police officer also ordered all police units to closely coordinate with the LGU and partner agencies.
"There are very active government agencies like DPWH, LTO, DOTC and volunteer groups who have been our constant partners in the past. I have directed our unit commanders to collaborate with them to beef up our security and ensure that the public will be safe," Pacleb said.
PRO-Northern Mindanao spokesperson Superintendent Surki Serenas said the expected influx of visitors, transients and tourists remains a perennial challenge despite maximum security in cemeteries and other key areas.
"While we secure places of convergence, we must also patrol villages watching over unattended homes and properties because it is during these times that accidental fires and burglaries happen," Serenas said.
"We therefore call on the public to stay vigilant, safe and prepared at all times. While you are out visiting your departed love ones, ensure you leave your homes secured, or at least leave someone to watch over it," Serenas added.