Security measures all set for Holy Week – Abalos
AS tens of thousands head to the provinces for the long vacation or for their respective religious vows in observance of the Holy Week, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. said that preparations are already in place for everyone’s security and safety.
Abalos said vacationers can expect uniformed policemen and members of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in areas of convergence to assist, protect and secure them from unscrupulous individuals who may be taking advantage of the volume of travelers.
“Sa inaasahang pagdagsa ng libo-libo nating mga kababayan sa kanilang mga probinsiya, inatasan ko ang PNP, BFP at mga local government units (LGUs) na manatiling naka-alerto para matiyak na magiging mapayapa, maayos at ligtas ang obserbasyon ng Semana Santa sa buong bansa,” he said.
The DILG chief said that police visibility will be heightened all throughout the country particularly in places of convergence such churches, pilgrim sites, terminals, malls as well as ports and airports.
Policemen were also directed to coordinate with the concerned LGUs through the deployment of checkpoints to ensure vacationers are safe and secured from their point of origin to the point of destination.
Out-of-towners were reminded to unplug all electrical connections before leaving their houses to avoid fires.
Meanwhile, the city government of Navotas also has its preparations to ensure safe observance of the Holy Week.
The city set up a security and traffic management plan, particularly near churches and chapels that are centers of religious activities.
“We expect an influx of churchgoers and the faithful on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, especially in Brgy. Bangkulasi where the Bahay ng Mahal na Señor is located. Tourists also flock to the area to witness devotees practice penitensya,” Mayor John Rey Tiangco said.
To avoid traffic congestion and road mishaps, M. Naval Street and North Bay Boulevard, from C4 Road to Lapu-Lapu Avenue, will be closed from April 6 at 6 p.m. to April 7 at 7 p.m. Motorists can take R-10 as an alternative route. With a report from Edd Reyes
