The Western Visayas police force will be on full alert this Holy Week to strengthen the security and safety of devotees, motorists, and tourists, Senior Supt. Isagani Cuevas, WV police director, said yesterday.

Oplan Semana Santa will involve the maximum deployment of PNP personnel at the provincial and station levels, particularly mobile patrol units along main thoroughfares leading to and from the sites of religious activities and summer resorts and, the fielding of uniformed policemen to deter criminal elements from their activities.

Cuevas said that all field unit commanders were directed to coordinate with church organizers and other agencies to ensure public safety during the Holy Week celebration.

He said they expect an increase in the volume of commuters, tourists, and motorists with the long holidays, and to the Holy Week observance, adding that police operations against crimes, insurgency and terrorism will be doubled to thwart untoward incidents.

Cuevas also advised the public to avoid bringing large amounts of cash and excessive wearing of jewelry when traveling or attending religious activities to avoid being victims of theft or robbery.

He also reminded motorists to remember to lock their vehicles, not leave valuables, like laptop computers and mobile phones inside, and to park vehicles in conspicuous places, or in lighted areas at night.

Ensure that alarm systems of vehicles are working properly, or have the latest auto theft alarm system installed, he said.

He also encouraged everyone to memorize the police hotline numbers in their areas.

Cuevas also directed all unit commanders to detail enough police personnel in churches and beach resorts in their areas.*

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