Transport sector, PNP on Holy Week high alert

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) placed transportation facilities around the country on “high alert” as it estimates that millions of Filipinos will travel for Holy Week, while police forces nationwide were placed under heightened alert as part of the comprehensive security measures for the long Lenten break.

- BY DEXTER BARRO II, AARON RECUENCO, and JEFFREY DAMICOG

In a radio interview, Transportation Secretary Vince Dizon said the DOTr and its attached agencies are actively monitoring airports, road transport terminals, and seaports to ensure passenger safety.

On the other hand, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said placing the entire police force under heightened alert is aimed at maximizing police visibility and ensuring that proactive public safety measures are in place as millions of Filipinos are expected to travel and observe the Holy Week.

"Let us ensure the safety of our people. Let them feel the presence of the police force in checkpoints and chokepoints," said Marbil during the command conference with top police officials held on Monday, April 14, at Camp Crame.

In the same conference, Marbil tasked police commanders to monitor and prevent common crimes such as theft and burglary, especially during a time when many families travel for the holidays.

He also instructed all units to continue implementing the gun ban and enhance coordination with barangay officials, local watchmen (tanods), and private security personnel in subdivisions and commercial establishments to mitigate potential threats.

Air travel

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the country's busiest airport and main international gateway, is expected to welcome more than 1.18 million passengers from April 13 to 20.

This is a 14-percent increase from last year's 1.04 million passengers.

However, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has a more conservative estimate, expecting around 50,000 travelers daily at the country's international airports this Holy Week.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M.

Viado assured the public that the bureau is prepared in dealing with the influx of passengers.