More than 4,000 police officers and personnel from various government agencies will be deployed across Pangasinan to ensure safety during the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days from October 31 to November 2.
Capt. Aileen Catugas, spokesperson of the Pangasinan Police Provincial Office (PPO), said 1,825 are police officers, 574 come from agencies such as the Bureau of Fire Protection, Coast Guard, and Army, while 1,763 are force multipliers.
Authorities expect around 133,000 visitors in the province’s 172 cemeteries and memorial parks.
PPO officer-in-charge Col. Arbel Mercullo said their security plan is ready and that police will be on “full alert” during Undas.
“We will be on red alert, full alert status during the observance of Undas,” Mercullo said.
He reminded the public that bringing bladed weapons, loudspeakers, alcoholic beverages, or firearms into cemeteries is strictly prohibited. “Our police officers will be on guard and will check the bags,” he added.
Aside from cemeteries, police visibility will be strengthened in churches, terminals, malls, commercial areas, bus stations, seaports, and airports.
To assist the public, 390 assistance desks—including 71 motorist help centers—will be set up across the province.
Mercullo encouraged the public to immediately approach on-duty officers or law enforcers if they need assistance.