(PHOTO BY FROILAN GALLARDO) Military and police snipers were deployed yesterday in key areas of Cagayan de Oro City in preparation for the Feast of Señor San Agustin on Tuesday, 28 August, which coincides with the full moon.

The deployment of snipers, however, was not carried out to allay the fear of the superstitious about the folkloric flesh-eating creature Balbal coming out to wreak havoc with the coming of the full moon.

Outskirt villages have already pinned on the Balbal the decapitation of five goats and 21 gamecocks, although the city veterinary office has theorized that wild dogs may be behind the attack on domestic animals.

City Mayor Oscar Moreno has organized Task Force Higalaay (Friendship) to ensure the safety of the residents and visitors during the city fiesta celebration.

The highlight will be the civic -military parade on Tuesday. The military has no reports of any threats coming from extremist and rebel groups in the region.