The Iloilo City Government is stepping up preparations to address four high-risk scenarios during the Dinagyang Festival 2026, ensuring the celebration remains safe and orderly.
According to Darwin Joemil Papa, Task Unit Commander for Search and Rescue, they are focusing on fire incidents, extreme heat, crowd surges, and potential bomb threats.
“With two of the judging areas located near residential zones, fire safety is a top priority this year,” Papa said, noting that emergency response plans have been intensified.
Fire safety measures are led by Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Iloilo City Fire Supt. Melanie Habawel, who confirmed that both personnel and volunteer groups are on red alert to prevent and respond to possible fire outbreaks.
The city is also preparing for extreme heat, which could cause dizziness or fainting among performers, and is closely monitoring crowd movement at judging areas to prevent stampedes or accidents.
Bomb threats remain a concern, particularly given incidents in previous years, prompting tighter security and surveillance measures.
Papa added that the relocation of three judging areas — from Iloilo Freedom Grandstand, Huervana La Paz, and Iloilo City Sports Complex — has increased the need for personnel deployment to ensure quick emergency response.
Currently, 655 personnel, 49 ground teams, and 32 ambulances are set to be deployed across key festival routes throughout the city.IMT
