ILOILO City – As thousands of Western Visayans prepare for travel, religious activities, and vacations this Holy Week, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) urged the public to stay vigilant and take preventive safety measures, especially when leaving their homes.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Arnel Solis, spokesperson for PRO-6, emphasized that while police personnel are fully deployed across key areas — churches, terminals, ports, highways, and tourist spots — the cooperation of the public remains vital in ensuring a safe and peaceful observance of this year’s Holy Week.
“This is a time for reflection and prayer, but it’s also when people become more vulnerable to theft, accidents, and emergencies,” Solis said. “That’s why aside from our security deployment, we are strongly encouraging the public to take simple but effective steps to protect themselves and their homes.”
PRO-6 issued these safety tips:
* Ensure all doors and windows are locked before leaving the house.
* Unplug appliances and turn off lights to prevent fire hazards.
* Ask a trusted neighbor or relative to watch over your home while you’re away.
* Save hotline numbers of local police stations and emergency agencies on your phone.
* Avoid bringing large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry when attending church services or traveling.
* Report any suspicious activities immediately to authorities.
The Holy Week security plan, dubbed “Oplan Semana Santa”, includes increased police visibility in areas where large crowds are expected. Police assistance desks will be set up near churches and major terminals, while mobile patrol units will monitor major thoroughfares.
With the summer season in full swing, tourist destinations across the region, particularly in coastal areas and mountain resorts, are also under close watch, Solis added.
“We expect heavy foot traffic not just in churches but also in vacation spots, so we are adjusting our deployment accordingly,” he said.
The security preparations come as part of PRO-6’s dual operations this season, which also include ongoing election-related checkpoints in line with the upcoming May 2025 National and Local Elections.
Solis said the public can help ensure a peaceful Holy Week by practicing basic safety, staying alert, and reporting emergencies promptly.
“Let’s all make this Holy Week not just spiritually meaningful, but also safe for ourselves, our families, and our communities,” he said./PN