Cops, basilica officials start security plan for Fiesta Señor

CEBU, Philippines — The police and officials of the Basilica Minor del Sto. Nino have started the groundwork for the security plan for the celebration of the Fiesta Señor next year.

Specifically, the two parties are now in close coordination to ensure peace and order during the conduct of the fiesta, which is expected to be the first under less stringent pandemic restrictions.

According to Lt. Col. Wilbert Parilla, deputy city director for administration of the Cebu City Police Office, they have held two meetings with officials of the Basilica and other relevant agencies.

As early as now, concerned officials are contemplating on allowing the return of pre-pandemic activities during the feast.

This means that there may be less to no restrictions this time, except the wearing of face masks.

“Katong mga Walk with Mary and  other activities mabalik nato karon”, said Parilla.

Now that the restrictions of COVID-19 have been really loosened, police expect that there will be huge crowds in these activities.

Parilla explained that the restrictions that will be implemented are very minimal compared to the past two years when they strictly implemented the same.

For example, before, there was a time limit to go to the basilica. There was also a minimum number of people who could enter the church. But now, it will not be enforced, especially if the number of cases of COVID-19 in Cebu City continues to decrease.

“Hopefully maayo ang dagan aron mabalik gyud nato sa normal,” said Parilla. — JMD (FREEMAN)