For sinulog security: Signal jam pushed

CEBU, Philippines — Those joining the three biggest activities for the Sinulog this weekend may have to do so the old fashion way again – sans live updates on social media.

The task force overseeing the Sinulog festivities recommended that the National Telecommunication Commission (NTC) cut cellphone signals off in certain areas in Cebu, said Chief Supt. Jose Mario Espino.

The NTC is expected to decide on the recommendation today.

The task force is composed of different law enforcement agencies, non-government organizations, and local government units.

The task force believes the Fluvial Procession and Solemn Procession today and the Grand Parade tomorrow will be more secure if cellphone signals will be shut down.

Authorities clarified, however, that there is no threat.

“This is for security and safety purposes for the devotees. We cannot say that there’s a threat or not but the bottom line here is the safety of the devotees,” said Cebu City Councilor David Tumulak, deputy mayor for police matters and chairperson of the Sinulog Festival.

Last year, 125 cell sites in Cebu were affected by the shutdown.

“The regional director of NTC said that they are all ready. For security purposes, we cannot divulge the areas affected,” he said.

With the development, communicators will be assigned to contingents joining the Grand Parade on Sunday to ensure a smooth flow of the parade.

“Tungod sa possible shutdown, gi-meeting na ang contingents ug communicators. We don’t have problems sa communication,” Tumulak said.

Ready

Yesterday, the new chief of the Police Regional Office (PRO) - 7 is all set for this weekend’s activities, security-wise.

“I think we are 100 percent ready sa events. Our event organizers, stakeholders have done several rehearsals already in preparation for the last leg of Sinulog Festival. I am hopeful and confident that the security and safety preparations are in place already,” said chief Supt. Robert Quenery said.

Quenery praised his predecessor, Espino, for the preparations, something that Espino attributed to cooperation from local government units and the church.

“Well, it’s not because of me. It’s because of the cooperation of the Basilica and the local government officials of Cebu City, of hearing my recommendation to implement yung one way flow ng sasakyan at nang tao, which resulted in a very orderly manner in going in and out in Basilica,” Espino said.

Gun ban

In a related development, Quenery confirmed a three-day gun ban in Cebu City, Lapu-Lapu City, and Mandaue City, as approved by the Philippine National Police.

As he has just assumed post as regional director, Quenery said he will do his best to ensure a peaceful Sinulog weekend.

“Really, I feel excited and to be of service and, of course, to the Patron Señor. As a Catholic, I am happy to celebrate it for the first time here in Cebu and, of course, to pray for the safety of all devotees,” Quenery said. (FREEMAN)