Over 3,000 security personnel deployed for Sinulog Festival

Over 3,000 security personnel were deployed on Wednesday for the upcoming Fiesta Señor celebration in Cebu City as Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia urged authorities to tighten measures amid an expected surge of devotees.

Mayor Garcia led a send-off ceremony at the Cebu City Sports Center where police, military, fire, and coast guard personnel gathered before deployment, with hotel occupancy rates reported between 80% to 100% by local associations.

The Philippine National Police assigned 1,028 officers to support the event, along with additional forces from various agencies such as the Bureau of Fire Protection, Navy, Army, and Coast Guard; this year's Sinulog will return to its former venue at the Cebu City Sports Center after two years.

Garcia emphasized the cultural and religious significance of the Sinulog Festival, describing it as a celebration that unites Cebuanos and inspires visitors, while also noting an increase in contingents from 45 groups each comprising around 400 to 500 individuals.

The mayor issued an executive order implementing rules during the festival, including restrictions on alcohol consumption around the procession route on January 18 and prohibiting street parties; councilors are implementing pre-registration for Devotee City to avoid overcrowding.