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The Philippine Coast Guard is deploying at least 60 personnel to Cebu City this weekend to help secure visitors at the Sinulog Festival in honor of the Santo Niño (Christ Child).

 

Cebu Coast Guard head Commander Rolando Punzalan said they will focus on the fluvial procession on Saturday, Jan. 14, radio dzBB's Cecilia Villarosa reported.

 

Punzalan said he also ordered search-and-rescue vessels deployed to the area just in case something untoward happens during the fluvial parade.

 

Also, he ordered Coast Guard personnel to be on the lookout for attempts to smuggle in liquor, fireworks, firearms and weapons into Cebu especially at this time.

 

Police earlier sought a special gun ban to be implemented during the festival.

 

Punzalan also reminded devotees to make sure the vessels they will use in the fluvial procession are registered with the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina).

 

On the other hand, he ordered his men to be on the lookout for ship operators who allow their ships to be overloaded with devotees.

 

The Sinulog is one of the grandest and most colorful festivals in the Philippines, with its highlight falling on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City.

 

A series of activities honoring the Christ Child will culminate on Jan. 15 with the Grand Parade. –KG, GMA News