PNP, AFP secure Luzon pilgrimage sites

MANILA, Philippines — Police and military personnel have beefed up security in pilgrimage sites to ensure the safety of devotees this Holy Week.

Brig. Gen. Steve Ludan, Cagayan Valley police director, said Bangan Hill in Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya; Dariok Hill in Santiago, Isabela; Mt. Calvary in Iguig and Our Lady of Piat, both in Cagayan are among those visited by devotees.

Bangan Hill is dubbed as the Mt. Calvary in Nueva Vizcaya.

A reenactment of the life, suffering and death of Jesus Christ is the main attraction in Dariok Hill, where more than 80 religious statues are installed along a 50-meter trek.

In Iguig, an 11-hectare replica of Mt. Calvary grounds features life-sized statues of the 14 Stations of the Cross. It is considered the Holy Land of the north.

Maj. Gen. Laurence Mina, 5th Infantry Division commander, said security measures are in place to ensure peace and order and prevent lawless elements from taking advantage of the Holy Week break.

In Bulacan, the provincial disaster risk reduction and management office put up assistance desks for those visiting pilgrimage sites.

The most famous pilgrimage sites in the province are the Basilica Minore of the Immaculate Conception in Malolos, Fatima shrine in Valenzuela, Divine Mercy shrine in Marilao, St. Anne shrine in Hagonoy, Nuestra Señora de la Imaculada Concepcion de Salambao shrine in Obando, St. John the Baptist shrine in Calumpit, Mahal na Poon ng Krus sa Wawa in Bocaue, Sagrado Corazon de Jesus in Cruz na Daan in San Rafael and Maria, Ina ng Eukaristiya at Grasya shrine in Sta. Maria.

Brig. Gen. Matthew Baccay, Central Luzon police director, said police presence has been intensified as pilgrims and devotees flock to churches and pilgrimage sites.

“We have also solicited the support of our force multipliers and auxiliary forces to include our BPATs (Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams) and radio net groups to help us ensure public safety,” Baccay said.

He said police chiefs were directed to inspect their men on the ground to ensure the safety of motorists and commuters.