THE 3,786 security personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), other law enforcement agencies, augmentation force and other force multipliers will be working hand-in-hand to ensure a zero-related incident during the three-day highlights of the 2018 Dinagyang Festival.
The highlights of the yearly festival will be from January 26 to 28.
In a send-off ceremony held at the Iloilo City Hall on January 25, Senior Superintendent Henry Biñas, director of the Iloilo City Police and concurrent Site Task Group Commander, said they also would like to reduce, if not totally prevent, the occurrence of common crimes and convey the message that Iloilo was “a very peaceful place.”
“I am very much confident that we can realize this goal to make Dinagyang 2018 very peaceful and enjoyable, one like what happened in Masskara and in Ati-atihan festivals. I respectfully appeal to everyone (to) work together to make this Dinagyang 2018 peaceful and enjoyable,” he said.
Chief Superintendent Cesar Hawthorne Binag, director of the Western Visayas Police, said the festival had leveled up to an international level.
“What we are seeing today is a testament that in securing a place, we need the whole-of-nation approach in security during a major event, such as the Dinagyang,” Binag said.
“Enjoy the Dinagyang Festival, you’re safe here,” he told the crowd.
Brigadier General Pio Diñoso, commander of the 301st Brigade of the Philippine Army, underscored that the nearly 4,000 uniformed and non-uniformed personnel are not the only group that can make the event successful.
“The people of this city have the responsibility and role to make the Dinagyang peaceful and successful. I enjoin all the people of this city and neighboring municipalities of this city to support your troops,” he said.
“This week Iloilo will be the center of attention. Iloilo City will be the showcase of the country. Iloilo City’s Dinagyang will be the centerpiece of the Philippines,” he added.
He said the role of security personnel was to assist and support the 450,000 Ilonggos in ensuring the safety of the festivity.
The Dinagyang security team came from the PNP, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, other government agencies, local government units and force multipliers, such as officer cadets, Criminology students and civilian volunteers. (PNA)