Security beefed up for Misa de Gallo

CEBU, Philippines - The police have tightened the security of the different churches in Cebu City as the “Misa de Gallo” or the dawn masses starts today.

Church officials are anticipating thousands of Catholic faithful to flock to the different churches to attend the nine-day Novena masses starting today.

Msgr. Roberto Alesna of the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral said they are already prepared for it.

“We anticipate nga starting tomorrow (early this morning) ang atong mga churchgoers musugwak,” Alesna said.

He said that a public address system and widescreen for viewing outside have been installed to ensure that those will not be accommodated inside the church will still be able to hear and view the mass.

Alesna encouraged everyone to sacrifice a little by completing the nine-day Novena mass.

“Maningkamot man gani ta’g kumpleto sa nine-day Novena sa atong mga pyesta-pyesta sa kapilya, how much more nga this is a nine-day Novena for the birthday of Jesus. So dyutay lang tali na sakripisyo,” Alesna said.

Completing the nine days is said to make a wish come true, and many Filipinos believe this centuries-old promise to this day.

Alesna said they have already coordinated with the Cebu City Police Office and the barangay officials of Sto Niño, San Roque and Tinago for the security.

The CCPO has issued directives to all station commanders and support units to beef up the security at the vicinity of the churches within their area of responsibility. The police are also putting up helpdesks near the churches to assist churchgoers.

Patrol Cars from the Mobile Patrol Group, Station Patrol Cars, and the Motorcops of the CCPO will also be deployed to monitor major roads leading to and from churches. Police on foot patrols will be deployed as well. — (FREEMAN)