Iloilo city: The Security Task Group (STG) deployed to ensure a peaceful and safe Dinagyang Festival reported no major or significant incidents, particularly on Sunday, when an estimated 350,000 people flocked to this city to join the celebration. 'The Dinagyang 2026 was powerful, vibrant and full of life, but most importantly, it was safe. Iloilo knows how to celebrate and knows how to keep it safe,' Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) officer-in-charge Col. Wilbert Parilla said in his message during the awarding program for the security forces at the Freedom Grandstand on Monday. He said it shows that discipline and cooperation are part of the Ilonggo culture.
According to Philippines News Agency, while there were no significant incidents, minor cases such as loss of consciousness, hyperventilation, and intoxication were immediately attended to by deployed personnel. Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) director Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan, who also served as the overall commander for the STG Dinagyang, said the recorded focused crimes decreased by 44.44 percent compared to the celebration last year. 'Just like the Ati-Atihan Festival, Dinagyang again showed that when preparation, coordination, and commitment come together, we can protect not only a major celebration but the safety and well-being of our people. Dinagyang is more than a festival; it is faith, culture, and identity. Because of your dedication, our people were able to celebrate free, joyfully and without fear,' Ligan said in his message as he lauded the forces for their dedication to the task.
The ICPO report also showed there were no cases of gun ban violation during its 10-day implementation starting Jan. 15. A total of 7,579 security personnel were strategically deployed in key venues, thoroughfares, transport hubs, and convergence areas. These included personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, local government units, and volunteer groups.
Meanwhile, the ICPO arrested 20 drug personalities in 14 anti-drug operations from Jan. 19-25. Operatives also confiscated 1,270 grams of illegal drugs with an estimated total value of PHP 8.6 million, according to the ICPO.
