Cops beef up security in Central Visayas for 'Simbang Gabi'
Police Brig. Gen. Roderick Augustus Alba, director of the Police Regional Office 7, directed all police commanders in Central Visayas to beef up police visibility in their respective areas in anticipation of the influx of churchgoers for the traditional Christmas dawn masses, locally referred to as Simbang Gabi.
In his directive, Alba said maximum police presence should also be ensured in other places of convergence such as transportation hubs, malls and even tourist destinations.

"Aside from securing vital installations that include sea and airports, the conduct of roving and inspection of churches should also be done," said Alba.
The instruction was relayed to all provincial directors, city directors, chiefs of police and heads of various units that include Highway Patrol Group, Aviation Security Group, Maritime Group and regional mobile units.
Alba said police assistance desks should also be set up in bus terminals and other transportation hubs aside from the regular conduct of beat patrol.
"As instructed by our Chief PNP, (Gen. Rodolfo Azurin, Jr.), police presence should be enhanced and must be felt by our kababayan in areas where they usually go," said Alba.
Millions of people are expected to troop to their hometowns and take advantage of the long Christmas break to go on vacation.
In Central Visayas, Cebu and Bohol are known popular tourist destinations.