Stay vigilant, safe as Sinulog reaches fever-pitch today
CEBU CITY – Devotees of the Sto. Niño, tourists and local residents who will be joining today’s procession and tomorrow’s Sinulog Grand Parade have been enjoined by authorities to remain vigilant and “pray for a safe celebration.”
Suspended Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama, who remains as chairman of the Sinulog Foundation. Inc., yesterday urged the public to be cautious and vigilant during the two activities, which are expected to draw thousands this weekend.
Rama stressed that while there was little chance that any group could launch any attack in Cebu, it still remains a possibility, considering that thousands will be joining the merrymaking in the streets, not only for the procession and the parade, but the other activities that include a street dance competition, the search for the Sinulog Queen, and fireworks display, among others.
He urged the public to immediately report any suspicious groups or persons to authorities to ensure that the celebration will be peaceful and orderly.
“We should all be vigilant. We should all pray for a peaceful and secured Sinulog,” Rama told reporters.
More than 1,400 augmentation police personnel will be deployed in the streets for the Sinulog activities as well as the International Eucharistic Congress which immediately follows the festival.
Chief Supt. Manuel Gaerlan, director of Police Regional Office-7, briefed police officers before deploying them last Thursday. He reminded them that they are not here in Cebu not only for police visibility, but to maintain peace and order.
The augmentation personnel came from Police Regional Office-7 headquarters, Mandaue City Police Office, LapuLapu City Police Office, Cebu Provincial Police Office, Bohol Provincial Police Office, Siquijor Provincial Police Office and from the Regional Public Safety Battalion-7.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) chapters in Cebu has started operations for the event with the deployment of volunteers and staff.
PRC-Cebu Chapter has deployed more than 150 personnel and volunteers who will be manning first aid stations located in strategic areas around the city where various activities are now being held.
The Cebu chapter started field operations on January 7 with four first aid stations around the Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino, eight spotters in the Basilica aisle, five standby ambulances with emergency medical technicians, and foot patrol assigned outside the premises of the Basilica.
The Red Cross first aid stations and deployment of staff and volunteers will continue until the culmination of the Sinulog festivities.
Three additional first aid stations will be added in the procession route during the fluvial procession and grand Sinulog parade.
“This is a time where all families gather together and take stock on how we can rebuild our lives, especially after the disasters that hit us. Some of us have new houses, some have new livelihood. It is also a time to keep our family safe. We have to learn how to predict disasters that may hit our communities so we can prepare. Nasa Diyos ang awa, nasa tao ang gawa. Please join the Red Cross 143, it is an organization where you will find self-worth. You will be able to keep your family and your communities safe,” PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon.