The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday assured the public of heightened security measures for the upcoming Sinulog Festival, as thousands of devotees and tourists are expected to flock to Cebu this month.

PNP Acting Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police forces in Cebu and nearby areas have been directed to carry out a strategic and well-coordinated deployment of personnel to ensure peace and order during the festivities.

Nartatez instructed local police units to work closely with local government units and other concerned agencies to maintain security and ensure the smooth conduct of all Sinulog-related activities.

“While our police forces in Metro Manila are busy implementing security measures for the Feast of the Black Nazarene, we are also making sure that the same level of peace and order measures would be in place in Cebu for this another important religious activity,” Nartatez said.

The Cebu City government has earlier assured the public that safety and security preparations are already in place for both the cultural events of the Sinulog Festival and the religious celebrations for the Feast of Señor Santo Niño, which will be held on 18 January. 

The feast day will be highlighted by a grand parade, which will begin with a Holy Mass to be presided over by Archbishop Emeritus Jose Palma.

Nartatez said the PNP has not monitored any specific threat related to the celebrations but emphasized that police units will remain on heightened alert throughout the event. 

“The security measures are in place but just like in any major events, real-time security adjustments will be made by our ground commanders,” Nartatez said.

“All of these are intended to make sure that our kababayan in Cebu will have a peaceful and meaningful celebration,” he added.