The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that the opening of the traditional Simbang Gabi (Dawn Masses) was smooth and incident-free.
PNP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo expressed hope that the peaceful atmosphere would continue throughout the nine-day observance, ending on December 24. “Wala naman po na-report na any untoward incident sa simula ng Simbang Gabi. Hopefully po ay matapos po itong nine days ng walang seryosong insidente na naitatala,” she said during an interview with Radyo 630.
(No untoward incident reported at the start of Simbang Gabi. Hopefully, this will continue until the end.)
Fajardo also observed that while there were large crowds in churches during the first day, the situation remained orderly. “Kanina sa mga simbahan na namonitor natin makapal po yung bilang ng tao but so far peaceful naman po,” she added.
(We monitored large crowds in churches but so far the observance is peaceful.)
According to Fajardo, PNP personnel were deployed several hours before the first Simbang Gabi began, with both mobile and foot patrols ensuring safety around church areas. Police assistance desks were also set up near churches to respond to any emergencies.
Fajardo reassured the public that the PNP will continue to monitor the situation closely to maintain peace and order throughout the Simbang Gabi celebrations.
