6 days ago
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BAGUIO CITY — It was generally peaceful in the Summer Capital during the Holy Week.
The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) reported that from April 13 to 19, it recorded zero index crime in the whole mountain hideaway composed of 128 barangay (villages).
Index crimes refer to murder, homicide, physical injuries, rape, robbery, theft and car theft.
BCPO director Col. Ruel Tagel said the zero index crime represents a 100-percent decrease in focus crimes compared to the same period last year.
During the 2024 Holy Week observance, the BCPO recorded eight index crime cases, such as physical injuries, rape, robbery and theft.
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"This significant reduction in criminal activity was achieved through BCPO's sustained efforts, including intensified patrol operations, heightened police visibility through deployment of personnel in strategic areas and close coordination with community stakeholders and barangay officials," Tagel said.
Earlier, Tagel emphasized the importance of consistency in law enforcement initiatives and even encouraged the public to be aware and cautious of their surroundings, and report suspicious activities and follow ordinances.
BCPO also attributed the zero crime during the period to the consistent implementation of peace-keeping programs.
One of the efficient programs implemented during the annual observance of Lenten season was the "Implan Kalmang Paglalakbay," a weeklong security and public safety operations that ensured a heightened police presence in bus terminals, places of worship, tourist spots and other areas of convergence.
City policemen were strategically deployed to manage traffic flow, respond to emergencies and provide assistance to both residents and tourists.
Before the Holy Week, BCPO and its private partner launched the BCPO View Baguio app, which provided real-time traffic and parking updates to guide the public.
Anti-theft teams were deployed to crowded areas such as marketplaces and tourist spots to prevent crime, while continuous information dissemination through BCPO's social media platforms kept the public informed with safety tips and timely updates throughout the Holy Week.
