Simbang Gabi Begins, Authorities Heightened Security Alert in Major Parts of the Country

Simbang Gabi Begins, Authorities Heightened Security Alert in Major Parts of the Country

The traditional Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo where Pinoy Catholics proceeds at churches to commemorate the actual birth of Jesus Christ starts in the early morning of Friday, December 16 and will end on Saturday, December 24, 2011.

Simbang Gabi also beings a nine-day countdown to Christmas Day. However, half of the population of mass-goers are young men who just want to see the girl they are courting, or young couples using the mass as an excuse to meet. In this regard, Bishop Joel Baylon, proposed the installation of speakers and wide screens outside the Church to force young people to pay attention to the sermon. While, the National Capital Region Police (NCRPO) chief Alan Purisima has increased vigilance against crimes that usually proliferate during the season.

On the other hand, Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director Chief Superintendent George Regis ordered his officers to watch out for petty thievery in churches.

Manila Police District (MPD) spokesman Chief Inspector Erwin Margarejo said they would look out for youth gangs causing trouble during Simbang Gabi especially in the areas of Manila Cathedral, Quiapo Church, San Agustin Church, Santo Nio Church in Tondo, and churches in Malate and Sta. Ana. They also set up checkpoints and increased patrols in preparation for the nine days of dawn Masses.

Earlier this month, the Philippine National Police prepared security measures for the yearly Simbang Gabi.

PNP chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome had ordered heightened alert in Metro Manila and Cordillera as well as national headquarters and national support units.

Bartolome reiterated full alert status in Regions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, ARMM and the Special Action Force troopers following bombing incidents in Mindanao.