Millions of devotees and tourists are expected to converge in Aklan and Iloilo City this January for the Ati-Atihan and Dinagyang Festivals, prompting the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center (RDRRMOC) to raise its alert status to Blue.
The move signals heightened readiness as these high-density gatherings carry risks ranging from crowd surges to emergencies requiring swift response.
The Blue alert status ensures that emergency response units are on standby and that monitoring and coordination continue with local government units.
The Blue alert covers the following festival periods:
• Ati-Atihan Festival: January 13–19
• Dinagyang Festival: January 23–26
Authorities are intensifying coordination among local government units, emergency responders, and law enforcement to monitor, prevent, and respond to any incidents before, during, and after the festivities.
“With millions expected on the streets, our priority is to ensure public safety and maintain order. Every agency must be ready to act at a moment’s notice,” the RDRRMOC said.
Revelers were urged to observe safety protocols, stay alert, and cooperate fully with officials to avoid accidents or disruptions.IMT
