The Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) is stepping up security for the holiday season, starting December 16 with the opening of the Misa de Gallo and continuing through the New Year.
MCPO spokesperson Police Lieutenant Colonel Mercy Villaro said at least 300 officers are on standby for deployment across key areas in the city.
Police visibility will be intensified at 10 identified locations, including churches and gymnasiums hosting dawn masses.
Among them are St. Joseph Parish in Barangay Centro, Christ the King Parish in Barangay Alang-alang, San Roque Parish in Barangay Subangdaku, Fatima Parish in Barangay Basak, Sto. Niño Parish in Barangay Paknaan, Holy Family Parish in Barangay Maguikay, Gethsemane Church, and the Nativity of Mary Parish Church. Gymnasiums in Barangays Looc and Umapad will also be secured.
Officers will likewise be stationed at malls, transport terminals, and public markets, where crowds are expected to swell during the holidays.
The number of personnel deployed in each area may be adjusted based on assessments from station commanders, with additional forces ready for rapid dispatch if needed.
Some officers will maintain fixed posts in strategic public areas, while others will conduct roving patrols in residential neighborhoods, coordinating with barangay force multipliers to help secure homes while residents attend Simbang Gabi and other holiday activities.
Villaro emphasized that the MCPO remains on normal alert status but is prepared to escalate security measures if directed by regional or national authorities.
The police aim to ensure a safe and orderly holiday celebration in Mandaue City, in line with past years. (VCL)
