PRO Calabarzon deployed 18,000+ personnel for Holy Week and Summer

By Lily Gut A small portion of the joint forces that provided security in Calabarzon during Holy Week 2024 is seen here during their send-of...

By Lily Gut

A small portion of the joint forces that provided security in Calabarzon during Holy Week 2024 is seen here during their send-off ceremony on Wednesday (March 27, 2024). (Photo from of PRO4A)

CALAMBA, Laguna - The Police Regional Office in Calabarzon (PRO4A) mobilized an 18,135-strong security force to safeguard the five-province region during Holy Week and the summer vacation period.

Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas, chief of PRO4A, emphasized the inclusion of civil society members to augment police efforts across all jurisdictions. The breakdown of the force included 7,382 police officers, 803 personnel from other government agencies, 8,851 barangay “tanod” (watchmen), and various advocacy groups.



Lucas stated that security personnel were positioned in tourist destinations, transportation hubs, religious sites, and residential areas to deter crime and ensure swift incident response. The partnership with neighborhood watchmen and civil society aimed to maximize vigilance and prevent security threats.

“Our top priority was the safety of our citizens and visitors, especially during significant events like Holy Week and summer vacation. This collaborative effort between the PNP, government agencies, and our communities created a secure environment for everyone,” Lucas said.

He urged residents and tourists to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and utilize designated hotlines and Police Assistance Desks (PAD). Lucas also noted the establishment of an inter-agency task force to enhance coordination and response capabilities.

To guarantee safe travel, a joint inspection of the Turbina Integrated Terminal in Calamba City was conducted by law enforcement agencies. Lt. Col. Milany Martirez, acting chief of the Calamba City Police Station, highlighted the focus on franchise regulation, vehicle maintenance, road safety, and driver health screenings (including drug testing) in preempting travel incidents.