PNP deploys 31,200 cops for traditional ‘Undas’ rememberance
Philippine National Police acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered units nationwide, numbering about 31,200 cops, for the annual observance on Nov. 1 and 2.
But the total number of security forces is expected to reach 72,800 all over the country, with 11,700 uniformed personnel from the military and another 29,900 force multiplier from local government units.
“We’ve instructed our personnel to maintain visible police presence and work closely with local government units and barangay officials to prevent burglary and other crimes while families are away visiting their [deceased] loved ones,” he said in a statement on Sunday.
Nartatez also reminded the public to take extra precautions before leaving their homes, even if they expect the usual remembrance to be uneventful as in previous years.
“Make sure all doors and windows are locked, unplug appliances, and inform trusted neighbors or barangay officials if you’ll be away. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it immediately to the nearest police station or through our hotlines and social media channels,” he said.
Around 31,200 officers will be deployed in 5,065 cemeteries, memorial parks and columbaria, as well as major roads from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3 as part of the PNP’s security operations for the “Undas” observance.
They will be supplemented by 11,700 uniformed personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection and Philippine Coast Guard.
Another 29,900 force multipliers, such as barangay tanods, radio groups and nongovernment organization volunteers, will also support the security operations.
The PNP has also established 5,169 Police Assistance Desks.
National Capital Region Police Office chief Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin previously said they would be on full alert starting Oct. 31.
Aberin said 8,575 personnel from the five police districts, regional headquarters, regional mobile force battalion and support units would be stationed in cemeteries and columbaria, transportation hubs, places of worship, major thoroughfares, rally convergence points and other areas of public congregation.
