The Philippine National Police (PNP) will deploy more than 70,000 police officers nationwide to secure churches and churchgoers at the start of the nine-day Misa de Gallo or Simbang Gabi on Tuesday dawn, December 16.

PNP Acting Chief Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police units will intensify foot patrols, checkpoints, and mobile patrols around churches, while strengthening coordination with local government units, barangay officials, and church authorities for crowd control and emergency preparedness.

“We are also vigilant against potential fire hazards and other emergencies. Kaya naman, our personnel will be visibly deployed and patrolling the vicinities of churches and surrounding streets,” Nartatez said.

Among the security concerns being closely monitored are theft, pickpocketing, and traffic safety in areas expected to draw large crowds.

“We are ready and we are committed to contributing to the meaningful Christmas to everybody through improved peace and order measures,” Nartatez said.

He also urged churchgoers to remain vigilant, follow traffic rules, and promptly report any suspicious activities to authorities.