MANILA, Philippines — The solemnity of the Lenten season may be transitioning into the hustle of the workweek, but for the nation’s police force, the mission is far from over.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced on Sunday that it will maintain its full alert status across the country until the last traveler has safely returned home. Despite a “generally peaceful” observance of Holy Week, authorities are refusing to let their guard down as millions of Filipinos begin the massive trek back to urban centers.
PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. emphasized that while the peak of religious activities has passed, the risks associated with the “great return” are just as high.
“Safe travel for millions of our countrymen remains our top priority,” Nartatez stated. “We will continue to be vigilant and responsive until every traveler has safely returned home. The safety and well-being of our citizens are not just a goal, but a promise.”
To back this commitment, the PNP has kept its 98,636-strong force deployed at key locations, including major highways, bus terminals, airports, and seaports.
While no major security threats disrupted the holidays, the week was not without tragedy. The PNP recorded 59 drowning incidents, 91 fires, and 455 vehicular accidents nationwide as of Sunday morning.
Additionally, a somber note was struck in Palawan, where a cargo plane crashed outside Busuanga Airport, claiming the lives of two pilots. In Metro Manila, the Department of Transportation also moved to relieve three airport security staff at NAIA Terminal 3 following allegations of theft from an Australian passenger—a reminder that vigilance extends to the integrity of the force itself.
As traffic volume swells on the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), the PNP chief urged motorists to exercise extreme patience. Nartatez reminded drivers to “keep their cool” and perform a final check on their vehicles before hitting the road to prevent accidents caused by mechanical failure or driver fatigue.
“Your police force is here, ready to provide an immediate response whenever needed,” he added. “But we also ask the public to look after one another, especially the children, as we close out this period of reflection.”
With terminals already reaching capacity and roads leading to Metro Manila becoming congested, the “blue shirts” on the ground remain the final line of defense in ensuring that a week of spiritual renewal doesn’t end in preventable misfortune.