Police beef up Holy Week security

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Provincial Police Office is deploying close to 100 personnel to Bantayan Island during the Holy Week to augment the local police force in the island.

Deputy provincial director, Superintendent Anthony Bagarinao, said security preparations for the Holy Week are in place. Bagarinao said that personnel from the police stations which have minimal activities will be utilized to augment in areas where people are expected to gather.

Aside from Bantayan Island, CPPO is also sending augmentation personnel to Minglanilla for the Sugat sa Kabanhawan Festival. The town is known for its spectacular Sugat Festival on Eastern Sunday.

Bagarinao said he will personally supervise the deployment in the north while Supt. Renato Malazarte will take charge of the south.

Police will also beef up security in ports, wharfs, and terminals where influx of people is expected.

Police Regional Office-7 director, Chief Supt. Danilo Constantino, has ordered to set up help desks at the ports and bus terminals to assist the travelers.

CPPO is closely coordinating with the Cebu City Police Office in the monitoring of criminal elements.

“Basin lang dunay mudayo ngadto sa Bantayan nga mangunguot kay tua baya ngadto ang mga tao halos,” Bagarinao said.

The deployment will start Tuesday next week.

Meanwhile, police have given the public tips to avoid being victimized by criminal elements.

City Intelligence Branch chief Romeo Santander said that the public should avoid wearing jewelry in public places and should keep their expensive gadgets so as not to invite criminals.

He said that walking alone in dark place when attending religious activities should be avoided. (FREEMAN)