Bicycle-riding cops deployed in Metro Manila to conduct patrol amid Holy Week

Bicycle-riding policemen were deployed in Metro Manila to conduct patrols and intensify police visibility amid the observance of Holy Week.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) personnel, along with several volunteer bicycle enthusiasts, participated in the activity “Biskleta Iglesia” which aims “to conduct focused patrolling and intensified police presence in the community.”

They visited several places of worship within the metro including the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, the Manila Cathedral, the Malate Catholic Church, and the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

“This method of patrolling will enable police officers to reach places where it would otherwise be difficult to use patrol cars but still capacitate a faster response than on foot. It is one of the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s strategic anti-criminality programs,” the NCRPO said in a statement on Thursday.

NCRPO chief Police Major General Edgar Alan Okubo said the public can rely on police officers as they will be seen and felt during the observance of Holy Week within the streets of Metro Manila.

Meanwhile, PNP personnel manning police assistance desks shall be placed in conspicuous places to help people in the community and immediately respond to help.

"The residents of Metro Manila can be assured that your NCRPO is always working to provide a safe and secured environment in the exercise of their religious freedom," Okubo added.

The PNP also inspected several bus terminals, seaports, and airports in Metro Manila on Wednesday.

According to Marisol Abdurahman's report on "24 Oras," the PNP, along with the Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection and Department of Health went to transportation hubs to oversee the peace and order situation and ensure the presence of medical personnel for emergencies.—Richa Noriega/AOL, GMA Integrated News