The city of Mandaue is implementing a comprehensive security and safety plan for the upcoming religious activities honoring the Santo Niño, involving an extensive deployment of emergency personnel.
Enhanced Security Deployment for Religious Events
The Mandaue City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MCDRRMO), in close coordination with the Mandaue City Police Office, is reinforcing security protocols for the Traslacion and the fluvial procession. A significant force of approximately 105 responders from the MCDRRMO and various barangay emergency teams will be strategically positioned along the procession route.
This year's schedule introduces a key change affecting security operations. The image of the Santo Niño will remain in Mandaue City for an entire night, altering the traditional timeline. Consequently, the Traslacion journey from Mandaue to Lapu-Lapu City is now scheduled to commence at 6:00 in the morning on the following day.
24-Hour Roving Duty and Medical Preparedness
To adapt to the revised schedule and ensure continuous vigilance, all deployed responders will be on 24-hour duty. Teams will conduct roving patrols every 30 minutes along the designated route from Subangdaku to the National Shrine of St. Joseph. This constant presence aims to safeguard the well-being of all participants and devotees throughout the event.
Anticipating potential health issues due to large crowds and intense weather, authorities are establishing dedicated medical stations at the National Shrine of St. Joseph. These stations are prepared to provide immediate assistance to devotees who may experience fainting or other medical emergencies, particularly those triggered by extreme heat during the festivities.
Coordinated Efforts for Public Safety
The joint effort between disaster management officials and the police highlights the city's proactive approach to managing major public gatherings. The focus is on creating a secure environment that allows devotees to observe their religious traditions safely. The detailed planning, including the extended duty hours and frequent patrols, is a direct response to the unique logistical requirements of this year's celebration, ensuring that the influx of devotees is managed effectively and emergencies can be addressed promptly.
