Police eye signal jammers during fiesta celebrations

CEBU, Philippines — The Police Regional Office-7 is again recommending the use of signal jammers as part of the security measures during the Fiesta Señor activities, especially the Sinulog Festival, next year.

PRO-7 director Chief Supt. Debold Sinas said the use of signal jammers proved to be very effective in securing the event this year.

“They have suspended the signal last year (this year) and we will adopt it, the reason behind it is kadalasan sa improvised explosive device ang gamit cellphones, so we may as well prevent it,” Sinas said.

The idea was supported by Councilor David Tumulak, deputy mayor for police matters, and Fr. Aladdin Luzon, chairman of the cluster on public order and security of the Basilica Minore del Sto. Nino.

“We made a commitment nga i-enhance nato ang police operations, tapos all activities there will be security provided,” Sinas said.

Sinas said that among the things discussed during his meeting with Tumulak and Luzon are innovations to better the security around the Basilica activities and the Sinulog Festival during the Fiesta Señor.

He said part of the initial adjustments will be the conduct of security inspections at the entrance. Sinas said that instead of doing it near the entrance and exit points, these will be done at least two meters away to avoid congestion.

Tumulak said the police are in the better position to make security recommendations including the use of signal jammers.

 “Para na sa safety maong niuyon ta sa sugyot kay ang kapulisan mao ang labing nakahibaw. Ang Cebu City hall, and other agencies, nagtinabangay,” Tumulak said.

Sinas said he will start the deployment of cops starting December 1 as dry run for the deployment for January’s activities.

Meanwhile, Cebu City Police Office director Sr. Supt.  Royina Garma has directed her station commanders to conduct security survey in hotels and other billeting establishments for the influx of local and foreign tourists.

She said tourist police desks will be manned 24/7 to assist visitors immediately. — FPL (FREEMAN)