Army in Sorsogon and Masbate observe “Semana Santa” while on Red Alert Status

From the Philippine Information Agency (Mar 27): Army in Sorsogon and Masbate observe “Semana Santa” while on Red Alert Status

CASTILLA, SORSOGON – Philippine Army’s 903rd Infantry (Fight & Defend) Brigade covering the provinces of Sorsogon and Masbate is also observing the “Semana Santa” with weeklong activities lined up, while on Red alert status.

Colonel Joselito E. Kakilala, 903rd Brigade Commander said that the Army, along with the Philippine National Police (PNP), intensified its security operations especially in destinations expected to be visited by locals and foreign tourists this Holy Week in these two provinces and nearby islands.

“Checkpoints were also put up along main roads in selected areas to ensure the safety of tourists and to have an orderly influx of devotees in churches and pilgrimage sites. The Brigade assigned personnel to assist the DPWH, the commuters and motorists that pass by the highways. There are also Army personnel assigned in main seaports, assisting Philippine Coast Guard in the provinces to ensure that there is no "overloading" of the ship and to prevent tragedy at sea,” he further said.

During the week, the troops will also be active in assisting during processions, Stations of the Cross, Carrying of the Cross, “Pasyon”, and other Holy week traditions which have been observed and vowed by the soldiers as Catholics.

A two-day Medical, Dental, and Civic Action Activities together with the Castilla Residents in Manila (CARESMA) will be conducted on March 31 to April 1, 2013 at the Church of St. John the Baptist in Poblacion, Castilla. CARESMA, is composed of residents from Castilla who are now living in Manila. The activity aims to share their blessings to Castilla folks aside from celebrating their homecoming meeting anew their relatives, friends, colleagues, and to remind them of their roots.

Some of the civic activities to be conducted are “Libreng Tuli”, haircut, and massage, among others.

Meanwhile, Col. Kakilala assured that the Army will assist and support the PNP, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to ensure the safety and security of the public and the tourists as well during the observance of these holy days.

While the troops in Sorsogon were busy in its Semana Santa activities, the Task Unit in Masbate, led by Colonel Samuel Felipe, is still in the conduct of Internal Peace and Security Operations to thwart Private Armed Groups, as part of its election duties’ mandate.

http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=801364367420