NAGA CITY, Philippines — The observance of Holy Week in Naga City was “generally peaceful,” according to Police Col. Gilbert Fariñas, city director of the Naga City Police Office and Incident Commander of the Incident Management Team (IMT) activated for the Lenten season.
The city government, under the leadership of Mayor Leni Robredo, continues to advance its campaign for peaceful and safe communities, a key priority outlined in her “2028 Finish Lines.” Robredo has emphasized strengthened collaboration among law enforcement personnel, emergency responders, and communities, alongside proactive measures such as intensified crime prevention, improved disaster preparedness, and accessible public safety services to ensure that every Nagueño enjoys a secure and resilient environment.
Fariñas said religious activities within the city proceeded without major untoward incidents following the activation of the IMT on March 30, 2026. The team is expected to be demobilized on April 5.
Police records showed minimal incidents during the period, including one arrest for theft and eight vehicular accidents. Authorities also recovered a missing motorcycle and arrested one individual for violation of Republic Act No. 9165.
Medical teams deployed in key areas also attended to minor cases such as seizures, body weakness, and vomiting. Patients were provided the necessary interventions, including blood pressure monitoring, tetanus shots, and first aid for minor injuries like abrasions.
Fariñas noted that no injuries were reported in upland barangays, although police operations such as Oplan Sita and checkpoint monitoring remain ongoing as part of sustained anti-criminality efforts.
On Easter Sunday, police assistance desks, medical personnel, and Bureau of Fire Protection units were stationed in major convergence areas to ensure public safety. Ambulances were also on standby for immediate response.
Two separate fire incidents were reported on Saturday, April 4, including a garbage fire near a church and another blaze in a mall parking area, authorities said.
The first incident, classified as a garbage fire, broke out at around 3:30 p.m. on a vacant lot in front of the Immaculate Concepcion Church in Barangay Concepcion Pequeña.
The City Tactical Operations Center (CTOC) received the report at 4:04 p.m. on the same day.
Earlier, at around 2:10 p.m., another fire incident occurred at the basement parking area of 101 Mall in Barangay Tabuco. Authorities said that, after investigation, the time of occurrence was placed at 2:50 p.m., while the CTOC logged the report at 3:25 p.m.
Details on the causes of the fires and the extent of damage were not immediately available as of this writing. Authorities continue to monitor fire incidents and remind the public to observe safety precautions, especially during the dry season.
The police also recorded an incident at the Holy Cross Parish in Barangay Tabuco, wherein two individuals were reportedly rushed to the Bicol Medical Center after a speaker from a public address system fell onto them.
Fariñas urged the public to follow authorities’ instructions and avoid bringing unnecessary valuables when attending religious activities. He also emphasized the importance of staying hydrated, especially for the elderly and children.
The police official likewise reminded IMT members, particularly those in the medical and law enforcement clusters, to remain alert and committed in delivering public service throughout the Lenten period. I via Jason Neola
