By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has placed all units on heightened alert nationwide ahead of the start of Simbang Gabi on Dec. 16.
Millions of Catholic faithful are expected to attend dawn and evening Masses leading up to Christmas.
Under the Ligtas Paskuhan 2025 strategy, more than 70,000 police personnel will be deployed in churches and other busy areas to ensure the safety of worshippers.
In a statement on Sunday, PNP Acting Chief PLt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said security measures include intensified foot patrols, checkpoints and mobile patrols, as well as close coordination with local government units, barangay officials and church authorities for crowd control and emergency response.
He also directed police commanders across the nation to secure churches and nearby convergence areas, particularly spots frequented by churchgoers after Mass.
“Our goal is for our kababayan to feel safe as they attend Simbang Gabi and return home. We are committed to helping make the Christmas season meaningful through improved peace and order measures,” Nartatez said.
He added that police will remain vigilant against theft, pickpocketing, traffic congestion, fire hazards and other emergencies, with officers visibly deployed around churches and surrounding streets.
Nartatez also reminded the public to stay alert, secure personal belongings, follow traffic rules and immediately report any suspicious activities.
Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has activated its own security measures across Central Luzon, deploying nearly 6,000 police personnel in key areas as part of the holiday security operations.
Beginning Dec. 16, police personnel will be stationed at police assistance desks, places of worship, transport hubs, commercial centers and tourist destinations, with additional deployments on Dec. 24 and 31 in designated fireworks zones.
Security efforts are supported by more than 500 force multipliers from various units and advocacy groups, alongside intensified anti-criminality campaigns and the establishment of Motorist Assistance Hubs along major roads. These measures will remain in place until Jan. 6, 2026. (PNA)
