HEIGHTENED police visibility is now in place across Mandaue City as authorities prepare for the influx of people during Holy Week and the summer vacation, with officials emphasizing public safety amid expected large crowds.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Mercy Villaro-Kantuna of the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) said the deployment of officers has already begun ahead of the observance of Semana Santa.
“Yes, we have already started deploying our police officers, especially now that Holy Week has begun, as well as the summer vacation period for the Philippine National Police,” Villaro-Kantuna said.
She said at least 10 identified churches in the city have been equipped with police assistance desks to ensure the safety of worshippers expected to flock to religious sites throughout the week.
However, the police presence will not be limited to places of worship.
“It’s not only in churches but also in other recreational places,” she added, noting that authorities are anticipating a surge of people in malls, parks, and swimming areas as classes are out and families take advantage of the holiday break.
Villaro-Kantuna said the dual observance of Holy Week and summer vacation presents a unique challenge for law enforcement, as crowds are expected to spread across both religious and leisure destinations.
“After Holy Week, people will continue going out since it’s already vacation, there are no classes. Many will go to malls, pools, parks, and other places where crowds are expected,” she said.
To address this, the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) has been placed under full alert status, with all available personnel mobilized to maximize police visibility and deter criminal activity.
“We will really maximize our police presence because we are on full alert. Our personnel are being deployed to prevent criminal elements from taking advantage of the situation,” Villaro-Kantuna said.
She said around 800 police personnel are currently being utilized, including administrative staff who have been reassigned to assist in field operations.
These personnel will augment regular officers, particularly during peak hours when foot traffic is highest.
Deployment schedules have been strategically set during early morning and late afternoon periods, specifically from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., when people are most likely to attend church services or visit public spaces.
Villaro-Kantuna added that while some officers remain on approved leave or sick leave, the majority of the force has been mobilized to ensure sufficient coverage across the city.
Police outposts will also remain operational to provide immediate assistance and maintain a visible security presence.
The intensified deployment underscores the police force’s effort to stay ahead of potential threats, as authorities work to ensure that both solemn religious observances and leisure activities remain safe for the public.
With thousands expected to gather in various parts of Mandaue City in the coming days, officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities, as the police continue to maintain a strong and visible presence on the ground. (ABC)