The Philippine National Police (PNP) will double its patrol units in residential areas from October 29 to November 3 as part of efforts to protect empty homes and businesses from burglars during the Undas break.
‘We’ve instructed our personnel to maintain a visible police presence and work closely with local government units and barangay officials to prevent burglary and other crimes while families are away visiting their loved ones,’ PNP Acting Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement on Sunday.
According to him, all police units nationwide have been ordered to heighten patrols in areas expected to be vacated during Undas.
Barangay patrolmen and volunteers have also been ‘strengthened to ensure a quick response to any suspicious activity,’ the PNP said.
Nartatez advised the public to take extra precautions before leaving their homes to visit their loved ones at the cemetery, and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the police.
‘Make sure all doors and windows are locked, unplug appliances, and inform trusted neighbors or barangay officials if you’ll be away. If you notice any suspicious activity, report it immediately to the nearest police station or through our hotlines and social media channels,’ the PNP chief added.
For Undas 2025, the PNP will be deploying around 31,200 police units in over 5,000 cemeteries, memorial parks, and major roads.
The police will be joined by 11,700 military and uniformed personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, and Philippine Coast Guard; and another 29,900 additional help from patrolmen, radio groups, and volunteers.
Over 5,000 police desks will also be established for security and guidance during Undas.