SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA) -- The La Union Police Provincial Office (LUPPO) is on full alert in anticipation of the influx of travelers this Holy Week.

In an interview with the Philippine Information Agency, PLtCol. Jake Isidro, officer-in-charge of the police community affairs of LUPPO said the whole PNP personnel has already been deployed provincewide to ensure the public's safety, especially in places where large numbers of people are expected to flock, such as in parks, churches, bus terminals, and tourist spots.

"Ngayon, pinapa-secure natin yung mga tourist areas at mga kalsada, sa pamamagitan ng Oplan Bandillo kung saan i-aannounce natin sa ating mga motorista ang mga safety tip dahil karaniwan po ngayong Semana Santa ay tumataas po yung ating listahan ng aksidente at diyan po tayo naka-focus sa mga nanamantala sa mga bahay-bahay,” Isidro said.

(As of now, we are bolstering security of our tourist areas and major highways through Oplan Bandillo wherein we are informing the motorists some safety tips in observance of Holy Week since there is an increase of security-related incidents recorded such as theft and robbery.)

In anticipation of families heading out of town for vacation during the Holy Week, police personnel is also extending their patrols to residential areas.

Since this is an opportunity for the people to visit their provinces or embark on vacations during this period, authorities are proactively ensuring the safety and security of neighborhoods.

In addition, Isidro said police will conduct mobile and foot patrols in the areas identified as place of convergence.

He also advised the public to be cautious on posting their whereabouts on social networking sites to avoid being tracked by criminals.

By refraining from updating on personal locations, the police officer said it will minimize the risk of being targeted and help safeguard their security and privacy.

“Protektahan ang buhay dahil iyan po ang unang pinakamahalaga sa atin. Ingatan ang sarili at ating pamilya, at sana ay safe kayong makarating sa paroroonan dahil iba na ang mayroong paghahanda sa pag-iingat,” Isidro added.

(Let us protect our life as it is the most essential thing that we have. Let us take care for ourselves, our family, and may you reach your destination safe and sound.)

The PNP Public Assistance Desks (PAD) will be established in places such as churches, malls, plazas, transport terminals, shorelines, among others. 

The LUPPO reassures the public that security measures are designed to promote a safe and secure environment for all citizens and visitors, especially during the long weekend observance. (JCR/MJTAB/KJCR/ MCastronuevo, PIA La Union)