Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 6) – Some law enforcers patrolled Metro Manila on bicycles as the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday launched “Bisikleta Iglesia” – a modified version of the Holy Week tradition “Visita Iglesia.”
In a statement, PNP Officer-In-Charge Rhodel Sermonia said the move to use bicycles is an effort to “boost operational readiness” and “intensify police presence” during the Lenten Season. As part of the PNP’s anti-criminality program, the method allows officers to “conduct focused patrolling and reach areas where it would otherwise be difficult to use patrol cars, but still ensure a faster response than patrolling on foot.” According to the PNP, the activity included police officers and volunteer bicycle enthusiasts visiting well-known places of worship and convergence within the metropolis, including the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, the Manila Cathedral, the Malate Catholic Church, and the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.
