Security tightened as CDO celebrates fiesta

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines – Police visibility has been intensified as the city celebrates its fiesta days after an explosion left eight people dead and more than 40 wounded late last month.

The Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) has received augmentation from the regional command to help secure the areas from crimes.

Authorities urged residents to support efforts on security awareness by reporting any suspicious persons or activities.

Msgr. Elmer Abacahin said the celebration would continue despite fears created by the bombing incident. He urged the faithful to observe the occasion meaningfully.

Cagayan de Oro City Arhbishop Antonio Ledesma called on the people to pray for peace even as he encouraged them to promote a culture of dialogue and forge bonds of solidarity.

Ledesma said he is echoing the message of Pope Francis during the World Youth Day, in Rio de Janeiro in Brazil last month.

The archbishop was with other Catholic bishops in Brazil when an explosion rocked the city last July 26.