To ensure the safety and security of tourists during the Lenten Season and summer vacation, over 4,229 policemen were stationed at tourist destinations in Eastern Visayas, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP) for Eastern Visayas.
Regional Director Brig. Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil stated that out of the total number of deployed policemen, 3,638 of them were supported by force multipliers from other units from the Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Army, Philippine Coast Guard, and Civilian Volunteers from Advocacy Groups.
The remaining 591 PNP personnel were assigned to implement the Oplan Maharlika, which secures the Maharlika Highway from Allen, Northern Samar to San Ricardo, Southern Leyte.
The PNP units and stations were instructed to coordinate with concerned agencies to disseminate safety tips to all arriving tourists.
To increase police visibility, assistance desks were set up with the help of volunteer groups, Departments of Public Works and Highways, Tourism, Land Transportation Office, and local government units in key locations.
Patrols were conducted along major thoroughfares, commercial areas, and vital installations, with regular inspections of tourist sites.
