MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced on Wednesday, October 14, that more than 100,000 police personnel will be deployed to secure the upcoming observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
The comprehensive security blueprint was outlined by Police Col. Amante B. Daro, acting Executive Officer of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Directorate for Operations, during the DILG Kapihan: Talakayan sa Komunidad at Pamahalaang Lokal forum.
According to Daro, a massive contingent will be stationed across burial sites throughout the country.
”The PNP will be deploying 111,582 [police personnel] in 5,628 cemeteries and columbaria,” Daro stated.
To bolster security measures, another 11,782 personnel from auxiliary units will be mobilized alongside 31,814 force multipliers, which include Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams, PNP advocacy support groups, and local government workers assisting with traffic flow.
“Yan ang kahandaan ng PNP para sa November 1 and 2,” he added.
This year’s total deployment marks a significant surge, doubling the roughly 50,000 law enforcers fielded during the same period last year.
Authorities emphasized that police operations will extend far beyond traditional resting places.
“Beyond cemeteries and columbaria, police personnel will be stationed at bus terminals and other transportation hubs to protect travelers from criminal activity amid the expected influx of passengers,” the DILG noted.
Heightened visibility will also be maintained in commercial districts, resorts, and high-density zones, particularly within Metro Manila where a large segment of the population is projected to remain during the extended holiday.
Furthermore, law enforcement will step up residential patrols to safeguard neighborhoods left vacant by families traveling back to their home provinces.
“May pupunta ng probinsya, iiwanan ang kanilang mga bahay. Minsan buong pamilya wala, so walang tao. Sisiguraduhin ng inyong kapulisan na papatrolyahan ‘yon, to make sure na ‘di sila mapapasok ng masamang loob, at hindi manakawan ang kanilang tahanan,” Daro assured.
Both the DILG and the PNP highlighted that maintaining public order and safety hinges on robust cooperation between police agencies and local government units, ensuring a secure environment for families honoring their departed.