The Philippine National Police (PNP) will mobilize more than 70,000 personnel to ensure public safety around churches nationwide for the annual ‘Simbang Gabi’ rites, PNP acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. said on Sunday.
The PNP is rolling out this measure under its ‘Ligtas Paskuhan’ 2025, placing all units on heightened alert as the traditional evening and dawn masses begin on December 15 and 16.
“Our goal is to make our countrymen feel safe as they go to the church for the traditional ‘Simbang Gabi’, and back to their homes. We are ready and we are committed to contributing to a meaningful Christmas to everybody through improved peace and order measures,” Nartatez said.
The PNP chief said police commanders were tasked to secure churches and other places of convergence.
Millions of devout Catholics are expected to participate in the traditional masses, which will be held for nine days, leading up to Christmas eve (December 24) and Christmas Day (December 25).
As part of security measures, the PNP will intensify foot patrols, checkpoints, and mobile units around churches while strengthening coordination with local government, barangay officials, and church authorities for crowd management and emergency preparedness.
Nartatez said among their primary concerns are possible cases of theft, pickpocketing, and ensuring safe traffic flow around crowded areas.
“We are also vigilant against potential fire hazards and other emergencies. Therefore, our personnel will be visibly deployed and patrolling the vicinity of churches and surrounding streets,” he added.
Nartatez also reminded mass attendees to stay alert, secure their belongings, and report suspicious activities immediately.
“We also remind the public to follow the traffic rules and guidance of the police officers to avoid accidents. Most importantly, enjoy your ‘Simbang Gabi’ safely, and always look out for one another,” he added.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “PNP to deploy over 70k cops for annual ‘Simbang Gabi’”
