Lapu-Lapu police brace for dawn masses

CEBU, Philippines – Police in Lapu-Lapu City will tighten their security for the nine-day Misa De Gallo, locally called as Simbang Gabi or dawn masses, at the churches in the city, according to city police acting director Senior Superintendent Armando Radoc.

He said this is aside from ensuring security for the International Eucharistic Congress Youth Day which the city will host on January 28.

Radoc told The Freeman that personnel from five police stations will be assigned to look after the safety of the church-goers starting December 16, while additional police force from LCPO headquarters will also be tapped.

"All these yuletide season-related activities will be fully covered," Radoc said.

Police assistance desks will be put up in the frontal areas of the church so they will be visible to the public.

Radoc also reminded the public to be alert at all times and to remain watchful of their surroundings, following reports of robbery and that a "salisi" gang was recently released from jail few months ago.

"Alerto gyud ta ana, mo-distribute og leaflets aron makahatag ta og public awareness kay kani sila (mga salisi) mangita gyud ni sila og opportunity to commit the crime," he said.

Radoc had earlier said the city is under heightened alert and that police officers were not allowed to file their leaves in order to maximize the security manpower for the city.

"We will be connecting with the barangays (Barangay Peacekeeping and Safety Officers) plus all-out nightly patrol," Radoc said. (FREEMAN)