MORE than 500 police personnel will be deployed by the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) for “Walk with Jesus” scheduled at 4 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026, from the Fuente Osmeña Rotunda to the Basilica Minore del Santo Niño.
The dawn procession marks the start of religious activities for the 461st Feast of Señor Santo Niño.
Lt. Col. Jose Losbaños, CCPO information officer, said personnel will be stationed along the route two hours before the procession begins to manage the devotees and prevent overcrowding.
In addition to uniformed officers, force multipliers including village watchmen (barangay tanods) and plainclothes personnel will be integrated into the crowds to monitor potential criminal activity, such as theft.
Mobile patrol units will also conduct roving inspections in interior areas of the different barangays to deter crime while the event is ongoing, the CCPO said.
Coordinating agencies including the Cebu City Transportation Office, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Bureau of Fire Protection will assist in traffic management and emergency response.
While no specific security threats have been reported, Losbaños said authorities remain on high alert and will maintain strict monitoring throughout the festivities.
Police are calling on devotees to avoid bringing backpacks to prevent delays at the Basilica entrances, where strict security screenings will be conducted. / AYB