As the Dinagyang Festival 2026 draws near, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) and partner agencies are now finalizing the security measures to ensure the peaceful and orderly staging of one of the grandest events in the country.
ICPO’s Security Task Group (STG) convened for its second inter-agency meeting at Camp Achilles D. Plagata in City Proper on Wednesday, Jan. 7.
Led by STG commander and ICPO director Police Colonel Kim P. Legada, the meeting focused on refining strategies for the upcoming Opening Salvo of Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan on January 10 and the Dinagyang Festival Opening Salvo on January 11.
Key officials, including PLtCol Lindley T. Barrientos and PLtCol Jereme M. Belo, led discussions with sector commanders and emergency response teams.
The primary agenda covered critical areas such as personnel deployment, crowd control, traffic and route management, and inter-agency coordination to handle the expected surge of locals and tourists.
In a statement, Legada emphasized that security is the backbone of a successful celebration.
“Dinagyang is a celebration of faith and culture, and our responsibility is to ensure that everyone can enjoy it safely. We are refining our plans, strengthening coordination, and working closely with all partners to deliver a secure and orderly festival for all Ilonggos and visitors,” he said.
The ICPO confirmed that a series of follow-up conferences will be held in the coming days to continuously adjust security measures as the main festival week approaches.IMT
