In preparation for the 460th Fiesta Señor, a significant religious event celebrating the Santo Niño, Cebu City has mobilized over 3,000 security personnel. The deployment was officially launched with a send-off ceremony at the Cebu City Sports Center on January 8, 2025, led by Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia. The security force comprises 1,028 officers from the Philippine National Police, 130 from the Bureau of Fire Protection, 200 from the Philippine Navy, 100 from the Philippine Army, and 50 from the Philippine Coast Guard, all set to safeguard the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño and other high-traffic areas during the festivities starting Thursday with a dawn procession.
Mayor Garcia emphasized the Sinulog Festival’s role in showcasing Cebu’s vibrant cultural and religious heritage. He described the event as a unifying force for Cebuanos and a source of inspiration for visitors, celebrating the faith and festivity centered around Señor Santo Niño. Garcia also issued an executive order imposing a liquor ban along the procession route on January 18 and banning street parties to maintain order.
During the ceremony, Fr. Andres Rivera Jr. conducted a mass, and Fr. Jules Van Almerez advised attendees to refrain from bringing large bags and to dress appropriately for the occasion.