Central Visayas Government Agencies Launch Comprehensive Holy Week 2026 Safety Campaign
In a proactive move to safeguard travelers during the upcoming Holy Week exodus, government agencies in Central Visayas have officially commenced "Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa 2026." This coordinated initiative aims to rigorously monitor security and passenger safety as thousands journey to their home provinces for the religious holiday period.
Enhanced Enforcement Measures at Bus Terminals
During recent inspections conducted at the North and South Bus Terminals, senior officials from the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 outlined their stringent actions against traffic law violators. LTO 7 Director Wendel Dinglasan revealed a groundbreaking strategy for Cebu: the deployment of "mystery riders"—undercover personnel who will board buses to catch drivers engaging in overloading practices.
Additionally, drivers and conductors will be subjected to random drug tests to ensure they are fit for duty. The LTO will also enforce strict compliance with LTFRB memoranda regarding proper rest periods for long-distance drivers, a critical measure to prevent road accidents caused by fatigue.
Fare Regulations and Terminal Management Directives
Despite rising fuel prices, LTFRB 7 Director Abosamen Matuan clarified that no fare increases have been authorized for the Holy Week period. He emphasized that any fare matrix posted by drivers is illegal unless officially issued by the LTFRB office. Terminal management has been mandated to maintain clean surroundings and provide free access to comfort rooms, enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers.
Police Deployment on Full Alert Status
Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan announced that the entire PRO 7 will be placed on full alert status two days prior to Semana Santa. Police forces will be strategically deployed to ports, terminals, churches, and tourist spots to ensure maximum security coverage. Under this alert level, police personnel are prohibited from taking leaves to guarantee 100% presence on the streets.
However, General Maranan assured the public that based on ongoing intelligence monitoring, no specific security threats have been detected in the region for the upcoming days, providing a measure of reassurance amid the heightened preparations.
