The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) expressed solidarity with the faithful as the annual Simbang Gabi officially began across the country.
“Buong pusong nakikiisa ang Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) sa pagsisimula ng taunang Simbang Gabi sa buong bansa,” the DILG said in a statement.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla underscored the government’s commitment to public safety during the religious observance.
The DILG said more than 100,000 Philippine National Police personnel have been deployed nationwide.
“Kasama po ninyo ang mahigit 100,000 kapulisan ng PNP,” the statement read.
The agency said local government units and barangay officials are also mobilized.
Their task is to ensure “ang kaligtasan at kaayusan sa mga simbahan at matataong lugar.”
The DILG urged the public to remain vigilant throughout the Simbang Gabi period.
“Maging alerto, alisto at mapagmatyag,” the statement said.
In case of emergencies, the public was reminded to seek immediate assistance.
“Sa oras ng emergency, tumawag lamang sa 911 at agad pong tutugon ang pamahalaan,” the DILG added.
The department said it aims to ensure a peaceful and meaningful celebration for everyone.
“Hangad ng DILG ang isang mapayapa, ligtas, at makahulugang pagdiriwang ng Simbang Gabi at Kapaskuhan para sa ating lahat.”