PNP launches Oplan Undas in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY, --- The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol would set up checkpoints and deploy additional police personnel as a security measure during the observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day, a religious event celebrated across the country, Bicol police chief said.

The security plan would put the PNP operatives on high alert after it launched Oplan Undas on Wednesday designed to maintain peace and solemnity in observance of All Saints and All Souls Days across the Bicol region, according to police BGen Anthony Alcaneses, Bicol police regional director.

Alcaneses said police operatives were tasked to secure religious, public and private cemeteries, churches, major roads, airports, ports, and other places where people usually converge during the religious event.

All Saints and All Souls Day will be observed on November 1 and 2 this year and were declared holidays.

Alcaneses said the PNP would also field additional personnel to provide support in manning assistance centers set up at various highways, airports, ports, including malls and communication relay stations.

Police assistance hubs will also be set up at major ports and airports to assist passengers particularly in the cities of Naga and Legazpi, Masbate and in Virac, Catanduanes.

Security checks would be strictly enforced in bus terminals and major seaports across the region, added Alcaneses.

He directed all units to stay on alert, vigilant and to take precautionary measures against domestic threat groups and other lawless elements that may take advantage of the event.

Alcaneses told his men manning checkpoints to confiscate firearms, bladed weapons, liquors brought inside the cemeteries.