The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced that the commencement of the traditional Simbang Gabi (Dawn Masses) proceeded peacefully without any reported incidents.
PNP Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo expressed optimism that the peaceful observance would persist throughout the nine days, concluding 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,” Fajardo stated during an interview on Radyo 630.
(No untoward incident reported at the start of Simbang Gabi. Hopefully, this will continue until the end.)
She further mentioned that although a large number of attendees were present at the monitored churches, the events remained calm. “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.)
Brig. Gen. Fajardo detailed that the PNP had strategically positioned personnel several hours before the first Simbang Gabi service. Both mobile units and foot patrols were active in areas surrounding the churches to ensure safety. Additionally, police assistance desks were established near church locations to provide immediate help if needed.
