Cebu welcomed the start of the traditional Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo with remarkable peace and order, as police authorities reported not a single crime incident during the first dawn mass on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
Massive Police Deployment Ensures Peaceful Start
According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Jose Losbaños, the information officer of the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), the religious activity was smooth and peaceful. He attributed this success primarily to the high visibility of police forces on the streets and around churches. As early as 3:00 a.m., close to 600 police personnel, along with force multipliers and other government agencies, were already deployed to safeguard public safety.
Losbaños stated that the current number of officers assigned to churches was sufficient, and there was no immediate need to adjust their deployment. However, he emphasized that authorities would make necessary adjustments each morning if any security lapses were observed.
Strategic Security Measures and Key Locations
The police utilized all available assets, including patrol cars, motorcycles, and even drones, to monitor the situation and prevent criminals from taking advantage of the season. Key churches identified with large congregations were the focus of security efforts:
- Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral
- Basilica Minore del Santo Niño
- Santo Rosario Parish
- Capitol Parish
These churches had Police Assistance Desks set up to address any concerns from churchgoers promptly.
Province Mirrors City's Zero-Incident Record
The peaceful trend was mirrored across the province. The Cebu Police Provincial Office (CPPO) also reported zero untoward incidents in all cities and municipalities under its jurisdiction on the first day of Misa de Gallo.
Police Colonel Abubakar Mangelen Jr., the provincial police chief, credited the achievement to the diligence in police visibility, proactive security deployments, and strong collaboration with each Local Government Unit (LGU). This coordinated effort between city and provincial commands set a secure and orderly tone for the remainder of the Christmas novena masses.
