CEBU, Philippines - More policemen have been deployed in Simala, Sibonga town today in anticipation of the flocking of Virgin Mary devotees to the Marian Shrine.
They are now starting to secure the road leading to the shine and the vicinity of the Monastery of the Holy Eucharist.
Cebu Provincial Police Office Director Jesus Gaquing said the Task Force Simala has over 100 policemen to be deployed in the area.
Sibonga town officials have created the task group to secure the area and keep the flow of vehicles.
Gaquing said the police deployment includes additional forces from the Regional Mobile Group that holds camp in the town, and personnel from nearby police stations for augmentation.
He said policemen will secure the area and the flow of traffic 24 hours from today until September 8, the celebration of the birthday of the Virgin Mary.
The deployed policemen will be under Insp. Allan Rosario, chief of Sibonga Police Station.
Since last month, the police have already coordinated with barangay officials, tanods and volunteers in their preparations for the event. — Niña G. Sumacot/LPM (THE FREEMAN)