Cebu Police Heighten Alert Ahead of Sto. Niño Fiesta Señor Celebrations

Cebu, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Central Visayas has heightened its alert status starting Friday in preparation for the influx of devotees to the Basilica for the Sr. Sto. Niño and the upcoming Jan. 21 Fiesta Señor celebrations.

According to Philippines New Agency, the heightened alert was implemented following an order from Regional Director Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin to increase intelligence monitoring. Pelare emphasized, “We will be exhausting all resources of PRO-7 to ensure a safe, secure, and solemn Sinulog celebration.” He assured reporters that while no specific security threats were identified for the Sinulog days, the police are not taking any chances.

The police have developed a system to monitor potential criminal activities targeting devotees of the Sto. Niño. Pelare revealed that the PNP in Cebu is broadening its coordination with police in other regions to track movements of criminal gangs who might attempt to disrupt the festivities.

Additionally, the police addressed concerns regarding recent crimes in the area. Pelare stated that investigations are ongoing to identify the suspect involved in the killing of a member of the LGBTQ+ community who served as a jury member in the Sinulog Teen event. The police are also investigating the death of a single mother in a mountain village in Cebu and continue to pursue suspects in a daylight robbery at a jewelry store on Colon Street.

The PNP’s commitment to maintaining public safety and security during the highly attended Fiesta Señor celebrations is evident in their comprehensive monitoring and response strategies.