More than 85,000 people attended the first night of Simbang Gabi across Metro Manila, which was generally peaceful, according to the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).

The NCRPO said large crowds were recorded at major churches, but no significant untoward incidents were reported.

Thousands of police personnel were deployed for heightened security operations, including foot and mobile patrols, police assistance desks, traffic management teams, and close coordination with church officials and local government units.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) clarified that it will not yet declare a nationwide full alert status this Christmas season, contrary to earlier announcements.

PNP Directorate for Operations Public Safety Division chief Col. Julius Caesar Domingo said the intelligence community does not see any serious threat at the start of Simbang Gabi. However, he noted that the declaration of the highest alert level will be left to the discretion of regional police offices if the situation requires it.

Domingo added that the PNP has been under heightened alert status since November, which will continue throughout the Misa de Gallo period and the traditional holiday season.

He also said authorities do not expect any security threats during the anniversary of the CPP-NPA on December 26 and on Rizal Day, December 30.