Manila, Philippines – As the country prepares for the Holy Week and the holy month of Ramadan, Philippine National Police Chief General Rodolfo S Azurin Jr. has called on all commanders of the police force, at all levels, to aspire for a zero casualty week.
In his message on Palm Sunday, the PNP chief urged everyone to ensure the safe travel of all motorists going home for the holidays.
“For all travelers via different airlines or seaports, let’s all ensure that no untoward incidents will happen at the airports and seaports especially the baggage or belongings of passengers,” General Azurin said. “To those taking the bus, please ensure that the drivers are okay, not tired and the buses are in good running conditions. Let’s keep this holy week one of the safest and most peaceful one.”
He also reminded PNP personnel, especially the COPs and commanders, to ensure their safety in responding to police assistance. “Let’s avoid the unfortunate incident that happened in San Miguel Bulacan. Let’s aspire for zero casualties among our personnel and the community we are serving and protecting as we observe our holy week,” he added.
In line with this call for safety, the Philippine National Police has launched its annual “Ligtas Sumvac (Summer Vacation) 2023” campaign. The police force will be deploying more than 77,000 police officers to ensure the safety and security of the public during these simultaneous Christian and Muslim religious celebrations.
To assist the public and promptly address specific complaints, Assistance Hubs (AHs) and Police Assistance Desks (PADs) with a total of 38,387 officers will be deployed for enhanced police presence through mobile and foot/beat patrol. An additional 39,504 officers will be deployed for specific areas of convergence such as major thoroughfares, transportation hubs, terminals, commercial areas, and places of worship.
General Azurin ended his message with a call to prayer and discernment for a better PNP. “Let us also pray and discern for a better PNP. Regards to the family!” he said.
The PNP urges the public to cooperate with authorities and follow safety protocols during this holy week and the holy month of Ramadan. Let us all work together to achieve a safe and peaceful holiday season.
