MANILA - Despite a deadly gun battle between Abu Sayyaf terrorists and government troops, this year's commemoration of Holy Week was "generally peaceful," the head of the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Easter Sunday.

"Earlier on Holy Tuesday, military and police security forces successfully thwarted an attempt by terrorist elements to disrupt an otherwise peaceful and meaningful observance of Holy Week in Bohol," PNP chief Director General Ronald "Bato" dela Rosa said in a statement.

"I congratulate everyone for their vigilance and cooperation with security forces that ultimately resulted in the uneventful and generally peaceful Holy Week."

Four government troops and 6 suspected Abu Sayyaf members, including subcommander Abu Rami, were killed in a gunfight in Inabanga, Bohol this week.

• WATCH: Bohol clash captured on cam

In his Easter message, Dela Rosa assured the public that security forces will continue to provide assistance to travelers returning home to the metropolis after their short break in the provinces.