As catholics observe lent Talisay, Naga beef up measures on security

CEBU, Philippines – Police in Talisay City and the City of Naga have reinforced their security measures in preparation for the observance of the Lenten season.

Talisay City police Chief Superintendent Germano Mallari said all policemen are ready to respond to alarms starting today until next week when most people are expected to return to the city after a vacation in the provinces.

Mallari advised the public to secure their homes before leaving for Lenten pilgrimage to avoid any untoward incidents.

He also urged motorists to always check their vehicles before traveling and not to drive while under the influence of alcohol.

For Naga police’s part, Chief Superintendent Brindo Nacario said they would assign two uniformed policemen in six Public Assistance Desks.

These PDAs will be set up in the following areas in the city: St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church, Metro Gaisano, arch bridge,  new market building, baywalk, tennis court and backstage of the city plaza.

In addition, a Public Assistance Center manned by six uniformed policemen will be installed in the vicinity of Bistro Alberto at the city plaza, said Nacario.

He also said they will tap the services of tanods, members of the barangay intelligence network and 57 criminology students of the Professional Academy of the Philippines to maintain order and conduct swift emergency response, particularly during Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

Nacario also assured to double up their security efforts during the holding of the annual Sugat: Ang Pagkabanhaw on April 4 wherein selected City Hall employees will perform the reunion of the risen Jesus Christ and Mother Mary at the plaza.

The city already declared the city plaza as a no parking zone and that all vehicles must park only in the vicinity of the City Hall Building, new public market, portion of baywalk and the newly reclaimed area.

City administrator Arthur Villamor already instructed the city engineering office on the installation of lights at the arch bridge, as well as on the strict compliance with the schedule of street cleaners.

Villamor also said the comfort rooms in the city plaza will be open round-the-clock while the city’s water supplier will be told to have a standby unit to ensure steady supply of water.

A local trash collecting firm has also been asked to augment its trucks for regular trash collection.