By Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan
MANILA –The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday said that it stepped up road safety operations ahead of the Undas exodus, directing police commanders nationwide to prevent road accidents and help ensure that families reach their destinations and return home safely.
In a statement, PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. ordered regional and local police units to strengthen patrols along major highways, accident-prone roads, and routes leading to cemeteries and transport terminals as millions of Filipinos prepare to travel for the annual observance.
He also ordered police units to conduct targeted information drives reminding motorists to inspect brakes, tires, lights, and other critical vehicle components before traveling.
“Our goal is not only to respond to emergencies but to help prevent them through vigilance, discipline, and timely intervention. I have directed our police commanders to strengthen coordination with local government units and traffic authorities, increase police visibility along major travel routes and accident-prone areas, and ensure prompt assistance to motorists,” Nartatez said.
The PNP is deploying more than 72,000 police personnel nationwide for this year’s Undas, on top of the augmentation forces from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, local government units and other force multipliers.
The police force will also be under full alert status from Oct. 30 to Nov. 2.
Nartatez said police visibility alone cannot eliminate road accidents and stressed that safety ultimately depends on the preparedness and discipline of every road user.
He reminded motorists to avoid speeding, distracted driving and sluggish driving. Drivers were also urged to be extra cautious on downhill roads, sharp curves, and heavily congested areas, particularly during peak travel periods.
Fake priests
Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) is urging the public to be vigilant against individuals posing as priests during Undas.
As thousands of families are expected to visit cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria across Metro Manila for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, the NCRPO called on the public to remain vigilant against individuals who may take advantage of the traditional observance by falsely presenting themselves as priests or authorized religious ministers and offering prayers, blessings, or other religious services for departed loved ones in exchange for money.
“Undas is a sacred and meaningful occasion for our families to remember and honor our departed loved ones. We appeal to everyone not to allow their emotions and trust to be exploited by individuals who may use religious representation as a means to obtain money,” NCRPO officer-in-charge Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano said in a separate statement.
