MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has activated its nationwide security plan “Oplan Bantay-Lakbay” to secure and protect travelers during the Holy Week and summer break.

PNP Chief Director-General Jesus Verzosa said Oplan Bantay-Lakbay involves mandatory security checks at airports, seaports and bus terminals to prevent unscrupulous individuals from taking advantage of the holiday rush.

It will be implemented during the Holy Week, the fiesta and Flores de Mayo season in May, and will extend until the opening of classes on the first week of June. The summer security plan will also complement existing election security operations for the May 10 national elections.

Under the security plan, Police Assistance Centers (PACs) will be set up in strategic locations along national highways and other major thoroughfares. They will serve as quick reaction points for police emergency and medical response, and advance command posts for traffic management and road security operations.

In coastal resort areas, the Maritime Group and local PNP units are tasked to conduct seaborne patrols and other police security functions.

In Metro Manila, Oplan Bantay-Lakbay will be spearheaded by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) in coordination with the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and Local Government Units.

The security plan for Metro Manila involves police assistance in overland bus terminals, seaports and domestic air terminals where outbound passengers are expected to converge for the traditional Holy Week exodus to the provinces.

Police stations are tasked to conduct preventive patrols and neighborhood watch, while all commercial business establishments, shopping malls, places of worship, MRT & LRT, and other vital installations will be placed under intensive security coverage.