The Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) is mobilizing close to 500 police personnel to ensure security and order for the upcoming 'Walk with Jesus' religious procession in the early hours of Thursday, January 8, 2026.
Massive Security Deployment for Religious Event
The procession will start at the Fuente Osmeña Rotunda and proceed to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño. According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Jose Losbaños, the CCPO information officer, officers will be strategically positioned along the route two hours before the event begins. Their primary focus will be on managing the expected large crowd of devotees to prevent dangerous overcrowding and ensure the smooth flow of the procession.
Multi-Agency and Covert Operations
Security will be bolstered not just by uniformed police but also by force multipliers like barangay tanods (watchmen) and other support groups. The CCPO will also deploy plainclothes police officers to blend in with the crowd and more easily detect any suspicious activities. All vehicles from the CCPO's Mobile Patrol Unit will be deployed for roving patrols in interior areas of barangays to deter crime while the procession is ongoing.
Additional support will come from personnel of the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO), the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).
Proactive Measures Despite No Direct Threats
Although no specific security threats have been received, police are not being complacent and maintain tight monitoring. Specialized personnel have been tasked to specifically watch for pickpockets and thieves who may attempt to blend in with the devotees.
Police are strongly urging participants of the Walk with Jesus to avoid bringing backpacks if possible. This is because the inspection of bags at the entrance to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño is expected to cause significant delays and congestion.
