PNP prepares security measures ahead of traditional nine-day dawn masses

CHRISTMAS TRADITION. A traditional Filipino Christmas or Paskong Pinoy is the nine-day dawn masses that start on December 16 and end on Christmas Day. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police is preparing security measures ahead of the traditional “Simbang Gabi” or Misa de Gallo, police said Wednesday.

A religious tradition where Catholic Filipinos’ hear mass for nine consecutive days starting December 16, the Simbang Gabi is expected to draw people to churches all over the country, said Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz Jr., spokesman of the PNP.

But it will not only be the police who will ensure the security of churchgoers, said Cruz, as he added that they have also urged village officers from Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams to join in their campaign against crime during the holidays.

The authorities will be patrolling the streets and are prepared to provide assistance to the public, he said, adding that they will be working to ensure that people stay safe. Karen Boncocan