Security for Holy Week, currently anticipated

The Davao City Police Department has ensured security for the upcoming Holy Week on April 17 to April 20 this year in every church in the city.

Spokesperson, Police Regional Office XI, Maj. Christine Del Rey said that there is already a security plan for the deployment of the troops to the churches.

According to her, there will be two (2) deploying officers at a minimum depending on the number of people in the church, including the authorities in the assistance desk.

“The minimum deployment is 8 people for the Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel. For the entrances, exits, police assistance desk, patrolling around the church, and security checkpoint, the minimum is 8 people. This is usually in 2 teams or 6 teams.” Major Del Rey said.

She also emphasized that there will be expected security clusters and volunteers due to the influx of people who are expected to arrive in churches.

Meanwhile, she also emphasized that backpacks are not allowed and jackets will be removed before entering the church premises.

“While checking your personal belongings, please be patient.” Major Del Rey stated.

She also ensures that the other churches in the whole Davao region will implement security measures following the municipality guidelines.

Beyond the church premises, the authority will also deploy to the vital installations because of the expected people who will arrive at the terminal, seaports and airports as well as tourist spots and beaches according to Major Del Rey.

“So, it’s crowded. So, the PNP personnel should be alert to keep an eye on the commemoration of the Holy Week. However, there is no estimated number of people, but, as of now, the initiative is coming from the PNP personnel. So, we have deployed enough personnel to be on standby, just in case.” Major Del Rey stated. (Ayah Deniega)