PNP assures tight Sinulog security

CEBU, Philippines - Even with just half of the planned number of policemen to augment the Cebu City police force are available, the Police Regional Office-7 assured that security will be tight for the Sinulog next week.

PRO-7 Deputy Regional Director for Operations and Cebu City Police Office Officer-in-charge Conrad Capa said that they would beef up security measures during the Sinulog celebration, anticipated that the crowd would still be large despite the presence of Pope Francis in Manila in the same week next week.

He said that 200 policemen from the Cebu Provincial Police Office would also augment his force and the additional 861 personnel from PRO-7.

Earlier, Regional Personnel and Human Resources and Development Division chief, Superintendent Renato Dugan said that they supposedly intend to send 1,500 PNP personnel from the regional headquarters for the Sinulog but around 400 policemen needed to be deployed in Tacloban City for the papal visit that will coincide during the Sinulog Festival.

He also advised licensed gun owners to leave behind their firearms in their houses since all permits to carry firearms outside the residence are suspended since a total gun ban is in effect.

PRO-7 is declaring a full alert status alert status on January 12 until January 18.

K-9 units from CPPO, Lapu-Lapu City Police Office, and the Mandaue City Police Office would also be deployed during the fluvial and solemn foot procession next Saturday and on the Sinulog grand parade Sunday next week.

Drones utilized by photographers to take aerial photos of the Sinulog activities would also be regulated at the Cebu City Sports Center, where the Sinulog grand parade grandstand is, and should be registered with the Civil Aeronautics Board.

Also, Philippine Coast Guard Station Cebu Commander Rodolfo Villajuan said that they would still accept registration of vessels that would join the fluvial procession on January 17 until January 16. There were 200 vessels that joined last year.

Because lawless elements are expected to descend in Cebu City to take advantage of the presence of the number of people, Capa advised the public not to bring their valuables, such as jewelry and high-end gadgets in crowded places.

He warned the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious-looking individuals to authorities.  (FREEMAN)