The Philippine National Police (PNP) reports a generally peaceful observance of Semana Santa 2025 nationwide, with no major untoward incidents disrupting the week-long religious tradition. This success is attributed to the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies, local government units, and the cooperation of the public, all working in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure a safe and solemn Lenten season.
From April 13 to 6:00 AM of April 21, 2025, the PNP recorded a total of one hundred twenty (120) incidents across the country. Among these were sixty-four (64) incidents of drowning, fifteen (15) fire incidents, and fourteen (14) vehicular accidents. Authorities also recorded three (3) cases of acts of lasciviousness, two (2) cases of alarm and scandal, one (1) theft, and one (1) robbery. In addition, there were twenty (20) incidents classified under other categories.
During the Monday Flag Raising Ceremony, PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil extended his deep appreciation to all police personnel who remained on duty during Holy Week. He acknowledged their dedication to securing transport terminals, major roads, places of worship, and tourist destinations to ensure the safety and convenience of Filipinos traveling for the holiday.
“While the rest of the nation was on break, you were on duty. Because of your vigilance and presence, the entire observance of Holy Week was generally peaceful, with no major incidents recorded. That is a true testament to your commitment, professionalism, and sense of duty,” PNP Chief Marbil said in his message.
General Marbil also commended the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) for their swift and successful resolution of a high-profile kidnap-slay case. He reported that three suspects have already been apprehended and are now under the custody of the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG). He emphasized that the case resolution is a reflection of the relentless pursuit of justice by PNP personnel, saying, “You did not rest—you worked day and night to ensure that no case is left unresolved.”
The Chief PNP reminded all units that as the nation nears the 2025 National and Local Elections, the PNP must remain on heightened alert, maintain neutrality, and intensify operations to thwart any threats that could disrupt the democratic process.
“This is a critical time for our organization,” he stressed. “We must assure the public that their police force is ready and fully capable of securing the integrity of this important national exercise.”
General Marbil assured the public that the PNP will not tolerate violence, intimidation, or any attempt to undermine the will of the people during the elections, adding that the police force will continue to uphold professionalism, fairness, and vigilance in the days ahead.
He also lauded the public for their cooperation and discipline throughout Semana Santa, emphasizing that peace and order are best achieved when law enforcement and communities work hand in hand.
The PNP remains committed to sustaining peace and order through proactive policing, community engagement, and continuous public safety operations during all significant national events. (PNP-PIO)
