CEBU CITY, Cebu, Jan. 5 (PIA) -- With the resumption of the Sinulog festivities this year, local police authorities have issued safety reminders for devotees who will participate during the Sinulog 2023 activities.
In a Kapihan sa PIA program, Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) Director Police Col. Ireneo Dalogdog said the prohibited items during the Sinulog festivities are: alcoholic drinks, backpacks and large bags, unauthorized pyrotechnics, and flammable substances such as lighters.
He discouraged crowdgoers from wearing ostentatious jewelry and bringing unnecessary gadgets and large sums of cash, which might attract pickpockets.
Dalogdog said parents who will bring their children along during the Sinulog revelry should ensure that the children are wearing name tags indicating emergency contact numbers and address.
He advised residents to ensure the safety of their house before leaving by unplugging electrical appliances or gadgets to avoid fire accidents.
For those who will bring their vehicles, the city police chief said these should be parked in licensed areas and make sure all doors are locked and they do not leave any valuables inside.
On the other hand, Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 Regional Director PBGen. Jerry Bearis asked cellphone users to turn off the location app on their phones before joining the Sinulog festivities.
“We are requesting those who will attend the festivity to please turn off your location app. This is to prevent thieves from knowing your location,” Bearis said in the same forum.
Meanwhile, the police official assured that they have implemented measures to ensure the peaceful celebration of Sinulog Festival this year.  
“All systems go. We are prepared,” said Bearis.
The PRO-7 has deployed 60% of its police personnel as augmentation force from Mandaue City, Lapu-lapu City, and Cebu City to secure the Sinulog activities.
“We will be deploying 60% of our police force to ensure the safety of everyone,” Dalogdog said.  
Police assistance booths will also be set up in strategic areas where crowds converge.
The request for signal jamming during the Sinulog Grand Parade was already forwarded to the National Telecommunication Commission (NTC) and is still subject for approval, Bearis said. (MYP/PIA7 Cebu)