Camp BGen Simeon A Ola, Legazpi City— The Police Regional Office 5 will deploy 5,138 personnel for the centennial celebration of the Peñafrancia Festival in Naga City this year. A formal send-off ceremony was held today, September 5, 2024, at the PRO5 Grandstand, Camp BGen Simeon A. Ola, Legazpi City, marking the multi-agency send-off for the security forces tasked with ensuring the safety and orderliness of the event.
The deployment includes 2,795 personnel from PNP Bicol, led by the Regional Task Group Commander, PCOL ROQUE A BAUSA, DRDO, PRO5. These officers represent various units including the Regional Headquarters, Police Provincial Offices, Aviation Security Group (AVSEG), Regional Medical and Dental Unit, Regional Communications and Electronics Unit, Highway Patrol Group (HPG), Regional Maritime Group Regional Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit, Regional Forensic Unit 5, among others.
In addition, 2,163 personnel from partner agencies are also part of this extensive security operation. These agencies include the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, Philippine Air force, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Land Transportation Office (LTO), Public Safety Office, Traffic Force Multiplier, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), Radio Groups.
This deployment, which will run from September 5 to 22, 2024, is intended to ensure a peaceful and orderly celebration, as well as safeguard the thousands of devotees and tourists expected to participate in the festivities.
As part of the security preparations, PRO5 has activated and intensified its checkpoint operations under Oplan Bicol Shield, a region-wide anti-criminality and security campaign. PNP Bicol also urges devotees and the public to remain vigilant against potential threats, as lawless elements and threat groups may exploit the event to conduct sabotage, raids, or other terroristic activities.
In addition to these preventive measures, PRO5 will strengthen its anti-criminality operations across Naga City. This expanded effort is part of the overall security strategy to address any untoward incidents and ensure a safe and secure environment for all festival-goers.
During his message at the send-off ceremony, PBGEN ANDRE P DIZON, Regional Director, underscored the significance of coordination and collaboration among all participating agencies to guarantee the success of the event. He highlighted the collective responsibility of law enforcement, government agencies, and the public in ensuring the safety of everyone during the Peñafrancia Festival’s 100th-year celebration.
Source: PNP Kasurog Bicol