Security measures are now in place for the observance of Holy Week in the cities of Cagayan de Oro and General Santos.

In General Santos City, the city police will deploy 400 personnel to areas of convergence such as bus terminals, seaports, airports, beaches, malls, and especially churches.

GSCPO said theft remains the most common crime during Holy Week.

Data from the previous Holy Week shows nearly 10 cases of burglary were recorded.

Police reminded the public to trim overgrown trees that could serve as entry points for intruders, improve lighting systems, reinforce barbed wires, and install CCTV cameras if possible.

Residents are also urged not to leave valuables inside their homes.

“Ang mga kahoy naduak na paingon sulod sa village, atu nang ipa-trim, ipa-chainsaw para dili na maoy agianan para makasulod ang mga kawatan sa village. Atung lighting system, i-renovate ang mga barbed wire didto, kung naay CCTV labing maayo. Sa mga household, dili ta magbilin og valuables possible didto sa atung balay,” GSCPO Director, Col. Nicomedes Olaivar Jr., said.

Authorities also warned the public against posting travel plans on social media to avoid being targeted by criminals.

Police assured that despite fuel and energy conservation measures, operations and response capabilities will not be compromised.

“Atong gipulong kagahapon sa buntag ang mga station commanders nga dili na mahimong rason nga ma-bad image ang atung kapulisan kay wala ka responde tungod lang sa diesel o gasoline,” Olaivar added.

Meanwhile, the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) has also prepared its deployment plan.

COCPO said up to 90 percent of personnel will be assigned to pilgrimage sites and other crowded areas, including the Malasag Shrine in Barangay Cugman, Guadalupe Shrine in Barangay Tablon, and a new pilgrimage site in Barangay Iponan.

“Naa na ta’y mga deployment sa atong mga major thoroughfare, sa atong mga churches, ug sa katong mga areas of convergence diin under ni sa Cagayan de Oro City Police Office,” COCPO Spokesperson, Capt. Emilita Simon, said.

Coordination between the police and local government units continues for the implementation of additional policies during Holy Week.

This includes a ban on overnight stays in pilgrimage sites. Bladed weapons and alcoholic beverages are also prohibited.

(With reports from Cyril Chaves and Efren Mamac, GMA Regional TV One Mindanao)