Caraganons assured of safer travels as PNP strengthens ‘Ligtas SumVac 2026’
By Nora L. Molde
In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure public safety and maintain peace and order nationwide, the initiative aims to protect the public during the Lenten season, fiesta celebrations, Labor Day, and the peak of summer travel from March 29 to May 31, when an influx of domestic and foreign tourists is expected across the region.
Police Brigadier General Marcial Mariano P. Magistrado IV, PRO13 regional director, said intensified security measures are now in place in major areas of convergence, including transport terminals, seaports, airports, churches, malls, and tourist destinations.
“We will be maximizing the deployment of police personnel across the region. The presence of police in crowded areas is crucial to prevent criminals from taking advantage of opportunities to commit crimes,” Magistrado said, assuring the public of a more visible and responsive police presence.
He emphasized that PRO13, in coordination with the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Coast Guard, and community partners, is implementing comprehensive safety measures to safeguard the public throughout the summer season.
“The safety and security of our citizens remain our highest priority. In line with this, we have elevated our security operations across the Caraga region under Ligtas SumVac 2026, with strategic and sufficient deployment of our personnel in key areas. Our fellow citizens can rely on their pulis Caraga to respond at any time, anywhere in the region,” he added.
Magistrado also urged the public to remain vigilant and observe basic safety precautions while traveling, stressing the importance of cooperation between citizens and law enforcement authorities.
The Caraga police further warned against opportunistic crimes that typically increase during peak travel periods, such as theft, scams, and road incidents caused by distracted driving. Motorists are advised to inspect their vehicles before long trips, avoid driving while fatigued, and strictly adhere to traffic rules and regulations.
This intensified security effort also supports the focused agenda of the Chief of the Philippine National Police, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., under the enhanced management of the police operations framework, which promotes proactive, coordinated, and community-centered policing.
Together with partner agencies and the community, the Philippine National Police remains committed to fostering a safer environment, guided by the principle: “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”
Anchored on the administration’s thrust for a safer and more secure nation, the initiative reinforces the vision of a “Bagong Pilipinas,” highlighting responsive and accountable governance.
PRO13 mobilized 2,069 policemen and force multipliers to secure the Caraga region this Holy Week and the summer vacation.
As the Lenten season begins, PRO13 calls on the public to remain vigilant and cooperative, underscoring that safety is a shared responsibility. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)
