Efforts to prevent residential break-ins and opportunistic theft during All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day have taken center stage, with national police leadership instructing neighborhood patrols to step up vigilance as families leave their homes empty for the Undas break.
Noting that burglars frequently target vacant properties while homeowners travel or go on vacation, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed local units to work directly with community leaders to safeguard residential zones.
“I have directed our police units to intensify neighborhood patrols and coordinate with barangay officials to deter burglars and protect homes left unattended during Undas,” Nartatez said.
Alongside police actions, law enforcement authorities underscored the role of public precautions, urging residents to secure all doors and windows before heading out.
Nartatez advised families to unplug electrical items prior to departure as a measure against electrical fires while properties remain unoccupied.
“As we honor our departed loved ones, let us make safety a shared responsibility by securing our homes, exercising caution on the road, and remaining vigilant in crowded places,” Nartatez said.
“The PNP will be on the ground to protect and assist you, and we urge everyone to cooperate with authorities so that Undas remains a peaceful, safe, and meaningful occasion for every Filipino,” he also said.
The residential safety drive comes alongside a nationwide full alert status that mobilizes approximately 141,000 police personnel, local government workers and force multipliers across the country.
This combined security force is deployed to oversee traffic flow, deliver public assistance and secure 5,311 cemeteries and columbaria, alongside transit terminals, churches, travel spots and primary roads nationwide.
In public gathering places, police cautioned travelers to remain mindful of pickpockets and thieves who capitalize on busy environments.
Nartatez reminded individuals traveling to memorial sites to safeguard personal items, refrain from carrying large amounts of cash or wearing prominent jewelry and keep watch over family members.
“Criminals take advantage of distraction and crowded places, so remain alert, look after your loved ones, and immediately report suspicious activities to the nearest police personnel,” Nartatez added.