The Cagayan de Oro City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (CDRRMD) is on red alert for the Holy Week as over 20,000 devotees are expected to visit pilgrimage sites in the city.

CDRRMD personnel installed tents and barricades at the entrance of the Guadalupe Shrine and Malasag walkway.

Ropes have also been placed to serve as guides for devotees as they cross rivers en route to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine in Barangay Balubal.

Devotees have to traverse nine river crossings and challenging trails to reach the shrine and complete their “Panaad.”

“Ang oras nato sa pagsulod, mao ra gihapon, 4 a.m. sa duha ka pilgrimage sites, pero mag-differ na dayon sa cut-off nato kay sa may Malasag kutob ra 10 p.m. then sa Guadalupe Shrine 5 p.m. ra gyud kay atong gilikayan sa atong mga pilgrims nga maabtan sa kagabhion,” CDRRMD chief, Nick Jabagat, said.

Authorities reminded devotees that drinking alcoholic beverages, smoking (including vapes), bringing large speakers and bladed weapons, and overnight camping are prohibited strictly.

“(Gibawal) ang mga dagko nga speakers and then apil na pud dinha nga ginadili ang pagpanigarilyo pati ang vape. Sa karon, sa sobra kainit, daghan kaayo og dry leaves ug mga sagbot nga medyo dali na gyud mokalayo o grass fire,” Jabagat added.

A medical team will be stationed at the entrance of the pilgrimage sites.

“Atong mga entrances, naa ta’y mga medical personnel nga mo-assist sa ilahang blood pressure, sa ilang medical status para kung fit ba sila mobaklay o muadto sa pilgrim sites nato,” Jabagat said.