‘Celebration of Christmas in Quezon City peaceful’

MANILA, Philippines — The celebration of Christmas in Quezon City on Monday was generally peaceful, police said yesterday.

Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director, said there was no untoward incident that marred the Christmas festivities in the city.

“The QCPD did not record any major untoward incident during the Christmas Day celebration,” Maranan said in a statement.

Up to 1,827 police officers ensured the safety and security of people who trooped to transportation hubs, markets, malls, churches, commercial establishments and other areas of convergence.

Among them were about 150 bicycle police who patrolled streets and areas that are usually visited by people during the Yuletide season.

Maranan lauded the city government under Mayor Joy Belmonte, church authorities, force multipliers and other stakeholders for keeping the public safe, especially during the nine-day Simbang Gabi or dawn masses.

“The entire force of Team QCPD is always prompt in the implementation of its tactical and strategic deployment to ensure public safety throughout the observance of the season,” he said.

The QCPD official urged people to remain vigilant against suspicious-looking individuals as police prepare to secure New Year’s Eve festivities.

“Any suspicious persons or activity that may be observed must be reported immediately to proper authorities for appropriate action,” Maranan said.