The Batangas Provincial Police Office (Batangas-PPO) deployed 2,426 uniformed personnel to 143 cemeteries on Friday as the province observes All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
In a statement to Manila Standard, Police Colonel Jacinto Malinao, Jr., the acting provincial director, stated that he ordered the intensification of security measures and police assistance to ensure public safety during this long weekend.
“We are committed to ensuring peace in Batangas, especially in the areas where your loved ones rest. We are united in our efforts to keep you and your families safe during this time,” he said.
The provincial headquarters also assigned 54 personnel to Police Assistance Desks (PADs) located in cemeteries, commercial areas, parks, community centers, as well as major tourist destinations, bus terminals, and seaports due to the influx of visitors and motorists visiting the cemeteries.
Malinao emphasized that the “full alert status during UNDAS demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Batangueños during this important holiday.”
He stressed that the PNP’s proactive approach includes increased deployment, public safety services, and coordination with other agencies to achieve a Ligtas Undas 2024.
Meanwhile, he shared that the police force is still conducting search, rescue, and retrieval operations in Talisay, Lemery, Laurel, Agoncillo, Alitagtag, Cuenca, and Balete towns that were affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami) last week.