The Philippine National Police (PNP) does not foresee any security threat to the traditional Simbang Gabi, which begins on Tuesday, December 16.

Speaking at Camp Crame, PCol. Julius Caesar Domingo, chief of the Public Safety Division under the Directorate for Operations, said the intelligence community has not detected any security threat, including in places of worship, reported RH 52 Edniel Parrosa.

However, the PNP will begin deploying additional officers at churches Monday night, in time for the anticipated mass to be held at 9 p.m.

Domingo reminded the youth, frequently involved in riots, that individuals as young as 15 years old can be held liable for crime.

The PNP has been on heightened alert since November, with up to 70,000 personnel on alert.

Simbang Gabi or the Misa de Gallo will begin tomorrow early morning, and continue until Christmas eve on the 24th of December.

The Philippines has over 19,000 recognized churches nationwide.