Dumaguete City — Nearly 3,000 security forces will be on duty in Negros Oriental to ensure public safety during the twin observance of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day this week.
According to Philippines News Agency, spokesperson of the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NOPPO), the same troops that were deployed for the October 30 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) in Negros Oriental will be responsible for 'Undas' security assignments.
These forces will be serving until Friday before returning to their mother units outside of Negros Oriental. The personnel comprise members from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Army, Coast Guard, and Bureau of Fire Protection. Polinar noted that the deployed units would be securing cemeteries, as people are expected to visit and honor their departed loved ones.
In addition to cemetery security, law enforcers will be deployed to monitor various strategic points including churches, sea ports, the airport, and bus terminals. They will also assist in managing traffic flow.
The continued utilization of these forces is consistent with the province's current status under the jurisdiction of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), as the election period for the BSKE extends through the end of November. The Comelec gun ban remains in effect, and local ordinances, such as the prohibition on bringing alcoholic beverages to cemeteries for overnight gatherings, will also be enforced.