CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — More than 13,000 law enforcers will be deployed across Central Luzon for Holy Week and the summer vacation period, as the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) ramps up security operations ahead of an expected surge of travelers, pilgrims, and devotees.
The security buildup, which will run from March 29 to April 5, marks a sharp increase from the initial 2,000 personnel originally assigned for the PNP’s SUMVAC 2026 operations. Police said the expanded deployment is aimed at securing churches, transport terminals, highways, tourist sites, and other major convergence areas across the region.
Starting March 30, PRO3 will also place all units under full alert status to boost police visibility, improve response time, and ensure operational readiness during one of the busiest travel and religious periods of the year.
PRO3 Regional Director Police Brigadier General Jess B. Mendez said nearly 9,000 police personnel from the regional command will be deployed on the ground, backed by more than 1,000 support units and around 3,500 force multipliers and members of advocacy groups.
“From our initial 2,000 personnel, we scaled up to more than 13,000 to ensure that our presence is felt where it matters most. As more people travel to roads, churches, and places of worship, we are also strengthening our forces to ensure their safety,” Mendez said.
Police said the deployment forms part of a broader security strategy to address the expected influx of people moving across the region for religious observance and vacation activities.
Regional staff have also been conducting inspections in key deployment areas to assess personnel readiness, visibility, and response capability ahead of the Holy Week peak.
To increase public safety presence, PRO3 said it has intensified foot and mobile patrols and established Police Assistance Desks and Centers in strategic areas, including churches, bus terminals, major roads, and other crowded public spaces.
Road safety marshals have also been deployed to assist motorists and help manage traffic flow, especially in areas expected to experience heavy congestion.
Authorities said police personnel will be stationed in places of worship as early as Palm Sunday to help ensure the orderly and peaceful conduct of religious activities.
Mendez said the goal of the operation is to allow families and devotees to observe Holy Week safely and without disruption.
The intensified security measures are in line with the operational priorities of Philippine National Police chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. under the PNP Focused Agenda, which emphasizes responsive and community-oriented policing. / Jason de Asis