By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — There were no untoward incidents on the first day of Simbang Gabi on Monday (16 Dec 2024), and the event was generally peaceful, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“Sa ngayon po, wala po tayong na-momonitor na anumang seryosong banta, lalo na’t malapit na ang ating holiday season. Ngunit gaya ng palagi nating sinasabi, hindi tayo nagkukumpiyansa at patuloy ang koordinasyon natin sa ibang ahensya ng gobyerno,” PNP spokesperson Jean Fajardo said in a radio interview on Monday.

Fajardo also mentioned that police officers have been deployed to churches to monitor the situation, and police assistance desks have been set up outside.

“Ilang oras bago magsimula ang Simbang Gabi, naka-deploy na ang mga pulis. Meron ding police assistance desks, pati na ang mobile and police patrols sa paligid ng simbahan,” she said.

The PNP spokesperson expressed hope that the remaining Simbang Gabi Masses would continue to be peaceful.

Simbang Gabi is a nine-day series of Masses held by Filipino Catholics leading up to Christmas.

ia/mnm

MANILA — Despite the drizzly weather, fervent attendees gathered for the much-anticipated day one of “Simbang Gabi” on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo this city.

Otherwise known as “Nine Mornings,” the “Simbang Gabi” commences as early as 4 a.m., marking the beginning of a nine-day series of masses before Christmas, dedicated to seeking special graces and considered a Novena.

The nine-day Novena serves to showcase the devotion and faith of Christendom while building anticipation for the nativity of Jesus. Rooted in Filipino belief, completing the Novena is thought to prompt God to grant devotees special wishes or favors.

“Simbang Gabi” stands as a cherished tradition, representing the celebration of the Holy Mass in the Philippines during the Christmas season.

(Benjamin Cuaresma/ai/mnm)

Manila Police District Chief, Colonel Arnold Thomas Ibay, and his team of officers diligently conducted a comprehensive inspection on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, around the vicinity of Quiapo Church in Manila.

This thorough preparation is in anticipation of the upcoming Simbang Gabi or “Misa de Gallo” nine-day dawn mass festivities starting the 16th of December. As the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) gears up for the commencement of Simbang Gabi, the focus is on ensuring a secure and orderly environment.

Captured in striking photographs are members of the Manila Police District Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) positioned prominently in front of Quiapo Church.

(Benjie Cuaresma/ai/mnm)