POLICE in Metro Manila will be on full alert once the traditional pre-Christmas Masses or ”Simbang Gabi” begin on December 16.

National Capital Region Police Office chief Police Major General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said personnel won’t be permitted to take leaves to ensure ”all resources are being utilized.”

They will be deployed in churches and surrounding areas.

Simbang Gabi will run from December 16 to 24.

The NCRPO has been on heightened alert since the bombing of a Catholic Mass in Marawi City on Sunday, which killed four people and wounded several others.

Philippine National Police spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo, however, said there was ”nothing to worry about.”

”We have not received any serious threat, particularly here in Metro Manila,” she said.