Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval on Wednesday, Dec. 18, urged residents to prioritize safety and health while celebrating the festive season.
The city government has implemented enhanced security measures and shared health guidelines to ensure a joyful and incident-free holiday.
Sandoval highlighted that the “safety and health should come first” while traveling and choosing nutritious holiday meals.
“Merry Christmas, Malabueños! Kasabay ng ating pagdiriwang ng Kapaskuhan ay ang ating pagpapaalala na una pa rin ang kaligtasan at kalusugan (Merry Christmas, Malabueños! As we celebrate this joyous season, let us always remember that safety and health remain our top priorities),” she said.
“Ang pamahalaang lungsod po ay handang tumulong kung mayroon mang sakuna o emergency, ngunit mas mainam pa rin na tayo ay mag-ingat at umiwas sa mga kapahamakan. Sa ating mga kinakain naman, atin din itong i-monitor para masiguro ang ating kalusugan. Nawa ay mapuno ng biyaya, pagmamahal, at pagkakaisa ang ating pagdiriwang (The city government is always ready to assist in times of calamities or emergencies, but it is still best to remain cautious and avoid danger. When it comes to what we eat, let us monitor it carefully to ensure our health. May our celebrations be filled with blessings, love, and unity),” Sandoval added.
City Health Department head Dr. Bernadette Bordador recommended healthier food options such as vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins.
She added that travelers were also advised to avoid alcohol, stay well-rested, ensure vehicle safety, and avoid distractions such as mobile device use while driving.
Sandoval reminded residents to secure their homes by locking their doors and windows, unplugging their appliances, and taking the necessary precautions to prevent theft and fire incidents.
To minimize firecracker-related injuries, the Ospital ng Malabon suggested alternative celebrations such as using musical instruments or attending community fireworks displays.
Injured individuals were urged to seek immediate medical attention.
Malabon City Police Station (MCPS) Chief Col. Jay Baybayan announced the deployment of over 160 personnel from the MCPS and Public Safety and Traffic Management Office (PSTMO), alongside barangay safety officers, to ensure the safety of the anticipated 40,000 attendees to the Simbang Gabi services in 11 local churches. These include:
- Saint Peter and John Parish Church
- Sacred Heart Parish Church
- Holy Trinity Quasi Church
- Immaculate Heart of Mary Church
- San Antonio De Padua Parish Church
- Saint Claire of Assisi Parish Church
- San Bartolome Parish Church
- Immaculate Concepcion Parish Church
- La Purisima Parish Church
- Santo Rosario Parish Church
- Exaltation of the Holy Cross Parish Church
Residents were reminded to stay vigilant and report emergencies to the Malabon Command and Control Center or via the city’s TXT MJS hotline.
Residents can reach the Malabon Command and Control Center or message through the city’s TXT MJS hotline for emergencies.
“We remind everyone to stay vigilant this holiday season,” City Administrator Dr. Alexander Rosete said.
"Our personnel and the Malabon PNP are ready to assist anyone in need,” he added.
The city government wishes all Malabueños a safe, peaceful, and joyous Christmas and New Year.