1,700 Eastern Visayas cops deployed to secure ‘Undas’

TACLOBAN CITY, Oct. 31 -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Eastern Visayas has deployed nearly 1,700 of its men to cemeteries, terminals, seaports, airports, and highways to ensure peaceful and orderly observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.

The deployment of 1,692 policemen kicked off Tuesday as people started visiting cemeteries to honor their dead loved ones.

PNP Eastern Visayas Regional Director, Chief Supt. Dionardo Carlos said Tuesday that security measures will be augmented by 2,418 force multipliers from local government units and private organizations.

“We are putting all police units in the region in full alert status this week to prevent any untoward incident and help people respect the solemnity of the annual commemoration,” Carlos told reporters.

Earlier, the police regional chief asked hid men to coordinate with local government units, emergency response team, and other volunteers to identify their specific roles. Tasks may include traffic management and security patrol even in residential areas to prevent theft and robbery incidents.

“We remind the public not bring prohibited items inside cemeteries such as firearms, bladed and sharp weapons, alcoholic drinks, gambling items, speakers, and other materials which may disturb the solemnity of the occasion,” Carlos said.

Meanwhile, Carlos disclosed that crime incidents in the region declined during the first three quarters of the year. Records show that crime against persons dropped to 2,113 compare to the 2,553 of the same period in 2017.

Crimes involving properties and violations of special laws also decreased to 5,212 for January to September 2018 from 5,785 in the same period last year. (SQM/PNA)