Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., on Wednesday ordered the “soft deployment” of policemen nationwide ahead of the expected surge of travelers for the traditional observance of the All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
Meanwhile, the weather agency predicted it would be a rainy Undas celebration on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2 in several parts of the country.
Nartatez said the soft deployment allows police units to gradually position their personnel and resources on the ground to address traffic build-up, maintain order, and assist the public even before the peak travel period begins.
“We have started our soft deployment of police personnel nationwide to ensure that our presence is already felt as early as now. This proactive measure aims to ensure smoother coordination and preparedness before the expected influx of travelers later this week,” Nartatez explained.
The PNP is currently on heightened alert until Nov. 3, meaning that all police units nationwide are required to increase their level of readiness and security posture to respond quickly to any untoward incident or emergency situations.
Nartatez increased the deployment of police personnel to around 50,000 to guarantee a safe, peaceful, and orderly nationwide observance of Undas.
This is more than the 32,000 police personnel deployed in 2024.
The policemen will be supported by 16,592 soldiers and elements of the Philippine Coast Guard, along with 45,712 “force multipliers.”
“As we expect large crowds in cemeteries, terminals, and major thoroughfares, my directive is to ensure that our countrymen feel the presence of the police, not to intimidate but to reassure. Our presence should give comfort and peace of mind to the public. My directive to our troops on the ground is simple: be visible, be courteous, and be ready to assist,” Nartatez said.
All regional and provincial directors were directed to activate their operational plans for Undas, in close coordination with local government units and concerned government agencies.
Nartatez said checkpoints, police assistance desks, and mobile patrols will remain operational 24/7 throughout the long weekend.
“We’re reminding our personnel to maintain professionalism at all times. Be courteous in dealing with our countrymen, especially the elderly and visitors to the cemetery. Let us serve with compassion and readiness. Remember, our role is not just to secure but to help,” he stressed.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said moderate to heavy rains are expected over Palawan as a possible low pressure area may cross the West Philippine Sea.
Moderate to heavy rains are also seen Batanes due to the northeast monsoon.
The same weather condition are predicted in Cagayan, Isabela and Aurora provinces on account of the shear line.
The confluence of an intertropical convergence zone, a potential low pressure area, and shear line could possibly bring significant rainfall within the next three days, the PAGASA said.
