A man dressed up with a similar costume used on the Black Nazarene calls from his cell phone in front of the Quiapo Church in Manila where devotees are preparing for the grand procession on Monday, January 9, 2012. (Mindanao Examiner Photo)
As many as 9 million devotees are expected to flock to Manila
Police have tightened security around the Philippine capital where the statue of Jesus Christ will be paraded.
“Over the past few months we have been apprised of intentions to create disruptions in the National Capital Region, during the Feast of the Black Nazarene. Previously, the difference between their intentions and capabilities has been quite pronounced. The possibility prompts us to warn you of the risk in attending the procession,” Aquino said during a televised address ahead of the Catholic festival.
“To those who will be attending you will note increased security preparations and measures. Your government wants to ensure, to the fullest extent of its capabilities, your safety. We ask for your understanding and cooperation. I call on our fellow citizens to exercise the maximum vigilance and discipline leading up to, and during, the procession. Report any and all suspicious activity directly to the authorities, or call 117,” he said.
Aquino also said that mobile phones and fireworks are banned during the procession and warned those who are unauthorized to carry firearms or weapons that security forces will arrest them.
“I ask you not to bring the following to the procession – cell phones, weapons, fireworks. Anyone who is caught bringing or using fireworks will be apprehended. Monitor and obey our warnings and instructions. This is for the safety and well being of all,” he said.
Aquino did not say what group is plotting the attack, but Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo said they are members of a terrorist group based in Mindanao .
The Abu Sayyaf is one of several terror groups operating in Mindanao blamed in previous attacks in Manila
“In any open democracy there will always be challenges coming from antisocial forces. The sad reality of the world today is that terrorists want to disrupt the ability of people to live their lives in the ways they want to: including the freedom to worship and engage in community activities. Your government will do what it has to do, to ensure the safety and security of the public. With the people’s help, we will succeed,” Aquino said. (Mindanao Examiner)
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