protection
MANILA
The Philippines has deployed 180,000 security personnel across the country for Holy Week celebrations, which this year coincide with the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. Around 80 percent of the Philippines’ more than 110 million people are Roman Catholics, whereas Muslims make up about 10 percent of the population. “Our commitment extends to ensuring the safety and security of our Catholic and Muslim brothers and sisters during this significant period of religious devotion,” Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., Philippine National Police chief, said.
Holy Week started on March 24 this year and will end on Easter Sunday.
This year, the most sacred week of the Christian calendar coincides with the holy month of Ramadan that began on March 12, during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and offer intense prayer and charity.
Out of the 180,000 security personnel, about 52,000 police officers will patrol key public places, such as ports, terminals, airports, churches and tourist destinations, Acorda said.
