Over 3,000 security personnel have been deployed to ensure safety during the Fiesta Señor, a major religious celebration in honor of the Santo Niño, which will begin Thursday with a dawn procession.

Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia led a send-off ceremony on Wednesday at the Cebu City Sports Center, where police, military, fire, and coast guard personnel gathered for deployment to the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño and other crowded areas.

The Philippine National Police has assigned 1,028 officers, supported by 130 from the Bureau of Fire Protection, 200 from the Philippine Navy, 100 from the Philippine Army, and 50 from the Philippine Coast Guard.

Garcia highlighted the significance of the Sinulog Festival as a celebration of Cebu’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

“As we all know, the Sinulog Festival is more than just a celebration; it is the heart of Cebu’s rich cultural and religious heritage. It is a time when millions come together in faith and festivity, honoring Señor Santo Niño, our beacon of hope and strength. This celebration unites us as Cebuanos and inspires visitors from all walks of life,” Garcia said in his speech.

Garcia issued an executive order outlining rules during the Sinulog, including liquor ban around the route of the procession on Jan. 18 and the prohibition of holding street parties.

Fr. Andres Rivera Jr. also celebrated mass at the sports center, while Fr. Jules Van Almerez urged devotees to avoid carrying large bags and wear proper attire. (PNA)