By EJ Roque/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — Malacañang on Tuesday said public safety will be government’s top priority this Lenten season.
“Concerned government agencies have been placed on a heightened alert status to ensure the safety and security of all. Public safety continues to be our top priority. These include additional security deployments in different areas of convergence, such as bus terminals, airports, seaports, vital government and private installations, churches, malls, and other public recreation areas,” said Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo in a statement.
Panelo said the Philippine National Police already deployed 11,600 policemen in Metro Manila and set up more than 4,500 assistance desks across the country.
He added the Department of Transportation already launched its Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2019 “to provide a convenient and safe commuting experience for all passengers”.
He added the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority deployed around 1,500 traffic personnel to assist travelers during the week-long break.
Panelo called on the public for cooperation in the conduct of safety checks and security checkpoints, compliance with traffic regulations and continued maintenance of complete situational awareness of their surroundings.
“We also urge the public to immediately report suspicious characters and unattended materials such as packages, bags and other objects that are out of place to proper authorities,” he said.
Panelo hoped for a “solemn, peaceful, and renewing break” and “divinely cleansing and spiritually fulfilling days” this Holy Week.
“Let us also remember that Lent is a time for reflection. It is a genuine message of solidarity to everyone regardless of the differences in our affiliation or denomination. May the life of sacrifice and humility that Jesus Christ had lived serve as an inspiration to us all so that we may continue to help each other especially in times of need and adversity,” he said.
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