Pinoys troop to churches for first day of Simbang Gabi

Filipino Catholics across the country woke up early on Saturday to join the first of the traditional nine "Simbang Gabi" (Dawn Masses) leading up to Christmas Day.

Devotees in Isabela City in Basilan filled the Sta. Isabel Cathedral on the first day of Simbang Gabi, despite the rains and security threats.

Security forces also arrived early to secure the cathedral.

In Calapan City in Mindoro, Catholics filled the churches for the Simbang Gabi.

In Laoag, Ilocos Norte, aside from the traditional churchgoers, city police personnel attended the dawn Mass, a report on GMA News said, adding that Reverend Father Philip Anthony Dimagiba, chaplain of the provincial police office, officiated the Eucharistic celebration.

Meanwhile, in most parish churches in Metro Manila, the traditional Simbang Gabi began at 4:30 a.m.

In Manila's Quiapo Church, devotees arrived at about 4 a.m. for the Mass, and  Metro Manila police personnel also came early to secure the believers, a report on Super Radyo dzBB said. —Peewe Bacuño/LBG, GMA News