Mandaue City Police Office Activates Full Alert for Holy Week and Transport Strike
The Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) has been placed on full alert status effective Thursday, March 26, 2026, as authorities intensify security preparations for the upcoming Holy Week and a scheduled two-day transport strike. This heightened alert aims to safeguard public safety amid anticipated large crowds and potential transportation disruptions.
Heightened Security Measures and Personnel Deployment
In a phone interview, MCPO spokesperson Mercy Villaro-Kantuna confirmed that police presence across the city has been significantly increased. "From March 26, 2026 until Holy Week, the Mandaue City Police Office is on full alert status," Villaro-Kantuna stated. She emphasized that personnel deployment has been maximized, with more officers assigned to field duties to enhance visibility and responsiveness.
To ensure rapid response to any incidents, the police have stationed mobile patrol units, outposts, and the Tactical Motorcycle Riding Unit (TMRU) across various areas. "Our personnel are now mostly in the field. We have continued our outposts, mobile patrol cars, and TMRU units that are on duty outside and ready for any eventualities," she added.
Coordination with National and Regional Police Forces
The full alert status is being implemented in coordination with the Philippine National Police and the Police Regional Office Central Visayas (PRO 7), particularly in response to the planned transport strike. Villaro-Kantuna noted that "PRO 7 is also on full alert due to the two-day transport strike, and the Philippine National Police is expected to maintain this status throughout Holy Week." This unified approach ensures a cohesive security strategy across the region.
Security for Religious Gatherings and Strategic Resource Allocation
In anticipation of large religious gatherings during Holy Week, the MCPO has deployed officers to secure at least 10 churches in the city that requested police assistance. Security measures include the installation of police assistance desks and the conduct of roving patrols during church activities from Palm Sunday until Easter Sunday. "This is already part of our standard operations during major religious events. We have a template for deploying personnel, including setting up police assistance desks and ensuring police visibility in church areas," Villaro-Kantuna explained.
Despite challenges such as limited transport vehicles, including patrol cars with smaller seating capacities, the police have assured that resources are being strategically positioned across key areas in the city. "All available personnel have been deployed to strategic locations. Our mobile patrols are operating 24 hours a day in different areas of Mandaue City," she said.
Public Vigilance and Cooperation Urged
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement as security operations continue throughout the Holy Week period. The MCPO's proactive measures highlight their commitment to maintaining order and safety during this critical time, balancing the demands of religious observances and potential civil disruptions.
