Aquino ‘satisfied’ with Holy Week security preparations

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang said on Monday, April 14, that President Benigno Aquino III is “satisfied” with the Holy Week security plan of the Philippine National Police (PNP), which he met that day to ensure all preparations are in place.

Aquino presided over a command conference at the PNP’s headquarters in Camp Crame that morning where several security concerns, including Holy Week preparations, were discussed.

 “Thus far, the President was satisfied with their presentations,” Valte said.

She said Aquino’s queries were “all ably answered” by PNP officials, adding that the goal was to ensure that the holidays are “orderly and peaceful.”

Valte said Aquino will also “spend the week monitoring the preparations and actions of concerned government agencies in light of the upcoming holidays,” on top of his other scheduled engagements.

She said the PNP also presented to Aquino its preparations for the Philippine hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit in 2015 and the World Economic Forum in May, as well as  PNP’s first quarter accomplishments.

Other preparations

Holy Week is regarded as one of the busiest weeks of the year for Filipinos who take the opportunity to travel and return to their home provinces.

Malacañang encouraged the public to take note of emergency hotlines provided by the government on its official website, and their rights as air passengers.

“These will be helpful to our countrymen who are going out of town for the weekend,” Valte said.

Malacañang also warned Filipinos to take care against suffering from heat stroke. In an advisory posted at the Official Gazette website, the government asked the public to drink plenty of water, limit the amount spent outdoors, and wear protective clothing, among others. – Rappler.com