5,000 security troops fielded for Undas in Zamboanga Peninsula

PAGADIAN CITY, Zamboanga del Sur — The Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9) has deployed over 5,000 security personnel and force multipliers across the Zamboanga Peninsula and Sulu province to ensure a peaceful, orderly observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day (Undas 2026).

Police Brig. Gen. Elmer Ragay, PRO-9 Director, directed the region’s police forces to heighten visibility, establish strategic checkpoints, and intensify public safety operations throughout the holiday period.

Police Lt. Col. Shellamie Chang, Chief of the PRO-9 Regional Public Information Office, said 5,355 security forces have been mobilized to secure 241 cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaria across the region.

Article continues after this advertisement

READ: LIVE UPDATES: Undas 2026 | Oct. 30

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

The security contingent comprises 3,415 Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel directly assigned to Police Assistance Desks (PADs), mobile and foot patrols, traffic management, and emergency response teams.

They are augmented by 1,269 force multipliers—including Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs), local traffic enforcers, and local government unit (LGU) personnel—alongside 671 personnel from supporting security units.

Ragay underscored the importance of a visible and people-centered police presence during the traditional annual migration to cemeteries.

“Our primary responsibility is to ensure that every family can visit their departed loved ones in a peaceful, safe, and orderly environment,” Ragay said. “I have directed our personnel to remain alert, visible, and responsive at all times, and to extend courteous and immediate assistance to the public.”

Article continues after this advertisement

Security forces have been stationed at key public convergence points, including major thoroughfares, sea and land transportation terminals, and commercial hubs, working in coordination with local government units and partner agencies.

PRO-9 advised the public to remain vigilant, follow cemetery regulations, keep close watch over personal belongings, and report suspicious activities or emergencies to nearby police assistance desks./coa