Cebu City will deploy 2,489 personnel across key areas this Holy Week as authorities brace for large crowds and increased travel, Mayor Nestor Archival Sr. said Tuesday.
During a press conference on March 31, Archival announced a citywide security operation covering churches, transport hubs, malls, and other public convergence areas.
The deployment includes 814 personnel assigned to 35 places of worship, where large gatherings are expected for religious observances.
Another 36 transport hubs, including terminals and ports, will also be secured alongside commercial establishments and other high-traffic locations.
Archival said the deployment aims to ensure the safety of residents observing Holy Week and travelers moving in and out of the city.
The security effort draws support from multiple agencies and local units, including 111 personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard, 475 traffic enforcers from the Cebu City Transportation Office, 280 barangay public safety officers, and 221 force multipliers and volunteers.
Of the total deployment, 993 are designated as security personnel, backed by a 135-member anti-criminality team tasked with monitoring and responding to potential incidents.
Supervisors and ground commanders have also been assigned to oversee operations in strategic areas.
Local officials said the heightened presence aims to deter petty crimes such as theft and scams, which typically rise during peak travel periods, particularly in crowded terminals and public spaces.
The local deployment complements regionwide preparations under “Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2026,” which includes around 10,000 police personnel across Central Visayas to secure major routes, terminals, and religious sites.
Authorities have also ramped up inspections of public utility vehicles and terminals, enforcing road safety standards, monitoring compliance with fare regulations, and preparing measures such as random drug testing and the deployment of “mystery riders” to detect violations.
Archival earlier said security visibility will be intensified in major terminals, citing risks posed by large crowds during the travel surge.
Officials added that coordination between local governments and national agencies will continue throughout Holy Week, with adjustments to be made as crowd volume increases to ensure safe and orderly movement of people across the city. (LLP)
