The Philippine National Police in Pampanga has deployed 329 policemen at the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival scheduled from April 11 to 13 at Pradera Verde in Barangay Prado Siongco.
Colonel Jay Dimaandal, director of the Pampanga Provincial Police Office (PPO) said the officers will focus on keeping the event safe.
“Our officers will be visible and ready to respond to any situation,” Dimaandal said.
He added that the policemen deployed in the area have also done thorough planning and training for emergencies.
The police officers will also be joined by 208 additional personnel from other government agencies.
“Police will be stationed at key areas such as entrances, balloon launch zones, performance areas, parking lots, and busy intersections. There will also be help desks for emergencies and lost items,” the PNP said.
To manage traffic, the PPO in coordination with the local government unit of Lubao have set up a traffic plan.
This includes one-way traffic routes at entry and exit points, designated parking areas for vehicles, and shuttle services to help people get to and from the venue.
Traffic officers will be stationed at key intersections to ensure smooth flow.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to avoid delays, according to the PPO.
In case of emergencies, medical teams, ambulances, fire trucks, and quick-response units will be on standby throughout the event.
There will also be a central command center to monitor the situation.
Known as Southeast Asia’s largest hot air balloon festival, the event started in 2019 and attracted more than 20,000 people daily, peaking at 30,000 on the last day.
This year, the festival will feature 26 hot air balloons from countries like Australia, Vietnam, The Netherlands, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, and the Philippines.