Quezon PDRRMC readies for influx of visitors during Holy Week

By Nimfa L. Estrellado Inter-agency Coordination for Holy Week: Quezon PDRRMC leads planning efforts with key partners including the DPWH, Q...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado

Inter-agency Coordination for Holy Week: Quezon PDRRMC leads planning efforts with key partners including the DPWH, Quezon Police Provincial Office (QPPO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), and DILG to ensure provincial readiness for the anticipated visitor influx during Semana Santa 2025. (Quezon PIO)

LUCENA CITY, QUEZON – Anticipating the traditional surge in travel during the upcoming Holy Week observance, the Quezon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (PDRRMC) has finalized its preparedness plans. Following their 2nd Quarter Full Council Meeting on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 the council announced that personnel will be deployed starting April 7.

This deployment aims to assist the influx of visitors, pilgrims, and vacationers throughout the Lenten season and into the summer break. The meeting, held at the Old Capitol Building, was presided over by Provincial Administrator Manuel Butardo on behalf of Governor Angelina "Helen" Tan, with PDRRMC Chief Dr. Melchor P. Avenilla Jr. guiding the disaster preparedness discussions.



Operations will run under "Oplan Semana Santa 2025," which includes elevating the provincial operations center's status to Blue Alert from April 11t to 21. This heightened alert status ensures increased vigilance and the readiness of response teams and resources for immediate action if necessary.

The council's comprehensive strategy focuses on four vital areas: ensuring accessible emergency medical services, maintaining disaster readiness through risk assessments and team availability, keeping the public informed with safety reminders and updates, and strengthening multi-agency teamwork. Effective coordination between local and national agencies, security forces, health services, volunteer groups, and other partners was highlighted as crucial for success.

Addressing road safety was a top priority during the meeting, echoing Gov. Tan's directive. Following specific requests from Provincial Administrator Butardo during the session, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) district offices detailed their plans accordingly.

These DPWH plans include issuing timely road advisories, ensuring proactive maintenance, and managing traffic flow near construction zones like the Lagnas Bridge project in Sariaya. Additionally, crews will be mobilized for motorist assistance while ensuring designated alternate routes remain accessible and clear.

On the security front, the Quezon Police Provincial Office (QPPO), led by Col. Ruben Lacuesta, confirmed their readiness. Their plans involve increased visibility through patrols and checkpoints, traffic management assistance, ensuring the safety of travelers at tourist spots and places of worship, monitoring potential threats, and running public awareness campaigns.

Support from other key agencies was also solidified during the meeting. The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), under Fire Supt. Santos Gawongna, will deploy personnel and equipment strategically and coordinate with local counterparts for emergency response.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) committed to enhancing maritime safety, assisting sea travelers, maintaining search-and-rescue readiness, and working closely with the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and shipping lines. This coordination aims to manage passenger flow efficiently at terminals, preventing congestion.

Coordination efforts also involve agencies like the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), ensuring aligned support. During the meeting, the council also approved an administrative resolution requested by the PDRRMC.

This action officially modifies the names and codes for specific programs and projects within the 2025 Local DRRM Fund. The Provincial Government of Quezon assures the public of its ongoing commitment and thorough preparations ensuring the province remains safe, disaster-ready, and resilient for everyone during the Holy Week commemoration and the subsequent vacation period.