The streets of Cebu City were once again a sea of faithful on the early morning of Thursday, January 15, 2026, as the annual Penitential Walk with Mary drew massive crowds. The event, a key highlight of the 461st Fiesta Señor celebration, proceeded with remarkable peace and order.
Massive Turnout and Flawless Security
Official estimates from the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) placed the number of participants at approximately 216,000 Catholic devotees. The procession began at 4 a.m., tracing its path from Fuente Osmeña to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
CCPO Director Police Colonel George Ylanan reported a completely peaceful event with zero recorded crime incidents during the Walk with Mary and the subsequent Traslacion. He attributed this success to thorough preparation and public cooperation.
Extensive Police Preparations Pay Off
To manage the huge gathering, authorities deployed a security force of around 1,200 police personnel and force multipliers. Colonel Ylanan stated that their extensive preparations, which included multiple dry runs and walkthroughs for Sinulog-related activities, proved highly effective.
"Overall, it was peaceful. There were no major incidents throughout the procession and up to the Traslacion," Ylanan confirmed. He highlighted that the ongoing gun ban has been instrumental in maintaining order during the Fiesta Señor events.
Looking Ahead: Stricter Measures for Bigger Events
With the major events of the festival still to come, the CCPO is already preparing for an even larger influx of devotees. The solemn procession scheduled for Saturday noon is expected to attract triple the number of participants.
For the Sinulog Grand Parade on Sunday, Colonel Ylanan announced additional measures to ensure safety. A liquor ban will be enforced within a 300-meter radius along the parade route. He also made a clear distinction regarding celebrations, noting that while many groups have secured permits from the Cebu City Government, these do not authorize street parties.
"Street parties will not be allowed after the Sinulog Grand Parade," Ylanan emphasized. Police will conduct roving patrols along the route to prevent unauthorized gatherings, which are often cited as causes of public disturbance. Police monitoring will continue throughout the festival to preserve the event's religious and peaceful character.
