BAGUIO CITY — A notable decline in crime was recorded in Baguio City during Holy Week 2025, based on comparative data released by the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO).
From April 13 to 19, 2025, the BCPO reported zero incidents under the eight focus or index crimes—murder, homicide, physical injuries, rape, robbery, theft, and carnapping of both motor vehicles and motorcycles.
This reflects a 100% decrease compared to the same period in 2024, which saw a total of eight (8) cases involving physical injuries, rape, robbery, and theft.
This significant reduction in criminal activity is attributed to the BCPO’s sustained and strategic efforts, including intensified patrol operations, increased police visibility through the deployment of personnel in strategic locations, and close coordination with community stakeholders and barangay officials.
As Baguio City enjoyed a peaceful observance of Holy Week, PCOL Ruel D. Tagel, BCPO City Director, underscored the importance of consistency in law enforcement initiatives.
He also urged the public to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and comply with local ordinances.
PCOL Tagel assured that the BCPO will continue its mission to foster a safe environment through innovation, collaboration, and integrity-driven service.
“The Baguio City Police Office remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring peace and order not only during Holy Week but also throughout the election period and the entire year. We will persistently maintain the highest level of vigilance and proactive policing to safeguard the community and ensure public safety,” PCOL Ruel D. Tagel stated.
IMPLAN “KALMANG Paglalakbay”: Ensuring a Safe Holy Week
The successful implementation of IMPLAN “KALMANG Paglalakbay” (Calm Journey Plan) by the BCPO played a key role in the generally peaceful observance of Holy Week 2025 in the city.
The week-long security and public safety operations ensured heightened police presence at transport terminals, places of worship, tourist attractions, and other key convergence areas.
BCPO personnel were strategically deployed to manage traffic, respond to emergencies, and provide assistance to both residents and tourists.
The BCPO also strengthened its operational strategy through the BCPO VIEW Baguio App, which provided the public with real-time updates on traffic and parking situations.
Anti-theft teams were stationed in crowded areas such as marketplaces and tourist hotspots to deter criminal activity, while continuous public information campaigns through BCPO’s social media platforms offered safety tips and timely updates throughout the week.
Supporting these efforts was the strict enforcement of COMELEC checkpoint operations, helping to prevent the unauthorized possession and transport of firearms and other contraband in line with election-related regulations.
“The success of ‘KALMANG Paglalakbay’ reflects our commitment to proactive policing and community partnership. We will continue to serve with a SMILE, dahil ang gusto ng BCPO, ligtas ka,” PCOL Tagel said.
Vigilance Beyond Holy Week
The BCPO reported that no major untoward incidents occurred across the city from April 13 to 19, 2025.
Nonetheless, law enforcement intensified operations to maintain public safety and order.
Several police-initiated operations were conducted during the week, resulting in multiple arrests under Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Republic Act 10591 (Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act).
COMELEC checkpoints were also established at the city’s boundaries in accordance with COMELEC Resolution No. 11067, serving as effective deterrents against the movement of illegal items and ensuring the enforcement of relevant regulations.
These efforts demonstrate BCPO’s unwavering dedication to public safety and the rule of law, ensuring that law violators are held accountable while the public observed Holy Week in peace and solemnity.
“While the public celebrated the season in reflection, our personnel remained vigilant and proactive in keeping the city safe,” PCOL Tagel said, commending the dedication and professionalism of all personnel involved.
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