With the two-day observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (Nov. 1–2) looming, the PNP, under acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., has directed units nationwide to boost patrols in cemeteries, residential neighborhood’s and business establishments.
Nartatez emphasised the importance of maintaining “visible police presence” and collaborating closely with local government units and barangay officials to deter burglaries and other crimes while families attend remembrance rituals.
He also reminded the public to take precautions before leaving their homes unattended: lock all doors and windows, unplug appliances, and notify trusted neighbours or barangay officials of their absence. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity immediately via the nearest police station, hotline or the PNP’s social-media channels.
As part of the security plan for the period of Oct. 29 to Nov. 3, the PNP will deploy approximately 31,200 officers at 5,065 cemeteries, memorial parks and columbaria, as well as along major roads. These will be supported by 11,700 uniformed personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Additionally, about 29,900 force-multipliers—including barangay tanods, radio-amateur groups and NGO volunteers—are expected to bolster the operations.
In the National Capital Region, National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin announced that full alert status begins Oct. 31. Some 8,575 personnel drawn from the region’s five police districts, mobile force battalion and support units will be deployed in cemeteries, transport hubs, worship places, major thoroughfares, rally / convergence points and other high-traffic areas.
Police Assistance Desks, inspection teams and mobile patrol units will be strategically positioned to guide the public, manage vehicle flow and respond swiftly to emergencies during the observance days.
