The Philippine National Police (PNP) said 40,151 cops will be mobilized nationwide as part of its “Oplan Ligtas SumVac 2025” campaign to ensure public safety during Holy Week and to secure summer vacation travelers.
PNP chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil assured the public of the police force’s readiness to maintain peace and order throughout the summer season.
“As we welcome Summer Vacation 2025, the PNP is fully prepared to ensure the safety of our people. Our law enforcement officers will be on the ground, working tirelessly to keep our communities secure,” Marbil said in a statement.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with authorities and immediately report any suspicious activities. By working together, we can make this summer safe and enjoyable for everyone.”
To jumpstart the campaign, the PNP has released a set of operational guidelines for police units and stations that aim to provide a safe and peaceful environment for people traveling to their respective provinces or tourist destinations to observe Holy Week and celebrate local fiestas and other significant events.
It will also intensify checkpoint operations to ensure the safety and security of all commuters.
All police regional offices were also directed to conduct regular inspections and mobile patrols to ensure maximum police presence in crowded places, such as bus terminals, seaports, airports, and other transport hubs.
The summer months bring a surge in travel as families take advantage of the long holidays and school break to visit their provinces, attend reunions, and enjoy vacations in resorts, beaches and other tourist destinations.
Several significant national events also fall within this period, including Philippine Veterans Week, Araw ng Kagitingan, Labor Day, Flores de Mayo, and the solemn observance of Holy Week from April 13 to 20.
The influx of local travelers, balikbayans and foreign tourists is expected to increase activity in transport terminals, major highways, commercial establishments, and recreational sites, requiring heightened police presence to prevent criminal activities and ensure public safety.
Traffic congestion along major thoroughfares and provincial roads is also a recurring concern, along with overcrowding in bus terminals, airports and seaports. Additionally, with many homes left unattended for extended periods, burglars may take advantage of the situation.
The PNP is also mindful of the possibility that threat groups and criminal elements may attempt to disrupt peace and order, especially with SumVac (Summer Vacation) coinciding with the election campaign period, election day, and the proclamation of winners for the National and Local Elections.
To address these challenges, Marbil said the PNP will implement the Enhanced Managing Police Operations Strategy, which focuses on increasing police visibility, intensifying patrol operations, and enhancing coordination with other government agencies and local government units.
He said Police Assistance Desks will be strategically placed in transport hubs, tourist spots and major event venues to provide immediate response to the public.
Law enforcement operations will be also strengthened to deter criminal activities while security inspections and intelligence monitoring will be heightened in key areas, including critical infrastructures, transport terminals and places of worship, he added.
Marbil said road safety measures will be strictly implemented in partnership with traffic enforcement agencies to ease congestion and prevent vehicular accidents.
He encouraged the public to take necessary precautions, such as securing their homes before leaving for vacation, being mindful of their surroundings, and following safety guidelines in crowded places.
The emergency hotlines and police assistance numbers will remain active for any concerns that require immediate attention.
“With a firm commitment to public safety, the PNP stands ready to ensure that Filipinos can enjoy a worry-free and peaceful summer vacation,” Marbil said. (PNA)