Local government units (LGUs) will play a central role in keeping major roads clear and passable this Semana Santa, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said.

Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach, national roads such as MacArthur Highway are being prioritized to remain obstruction-free during the peak of Holy Week travel.

Speaking at a press conference alongside Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon, Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Atty. Giovanni Lopez, and Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla underscored that LGUs are in the best position to enforce road clearing within their jurisdictions.

“Sila ‘yung number one diyan. Case in point si Mayor Benjie Magalong. Sinisigurado niya na ang Kennon Road ay magiging obstruction-free,” he said, noting that local chief executives can take the lead in ensuring smoother traffic flow for travelers.

The DILG said clearing obstructions means faster travel, fewer delays, and safer roads for Filipinos this Holy Week.

The PNP expressed full support for the initiative, with Nartatez saying police units nationwide are mobilized to clear obstructions and apprehend illegally parked vehicles using available resources.

The PNP will deploy 98,636 personnel, supported by 37,050 force multipliers and 12,507 augmentation units, and will coordinate closely with barangay officials to enforce the zero-obstruction policy.

Among those targeted for removal are illegally parked vehicles, protruding structures along roads, obstructions near school zones, sun-dried agricultural products on highways, and other factors that contribute to traffic congestion.

The DILG said the effort is ultimately about making travel more manageable for ordinary Filipinos, especially families heading home or visiting loved ones this Semana Santa, by ensuring roads remain open, safe, and accessible.