In anticipation of the Dinagyang Festival 2026, authorities are deploying a massive security apparatus to prevent disorder during one of the Philippines’ largest cultural gatherings.
The Police Regional Office (PRO 6) confirmed that over 3,000 police personnel will be stationed across the city, including 1,870 officers from Camp Delgado serving as augmentation forces.
Additional law enforcement units, volunteer groups, and force multipliers will bolster the city’s security coverage.
In a rare step for festival policing, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP-6) has approved the deployment of four prisoners’ vans to respond to unruly attendees or public disturbances in real time.
BJMP-6 Director Jail Senior Superintendent Jhon Montero said the Special Task Group (STG) Dinagyang will determine the vans’ positioning.
“Enjoy the festival, but do not cause trouble. These vans are not just props—they’re ready for those who disrupt the celebration,” he warned.
Security coordination is continuing amid a leadership transition at the Iloilo City Police Office.
Outgoing Director Police Colonel Kim Legada said incoming Officer-in-Charge Police Colonel Roland Bulalacao is now supervising all operational planning.
Legada confirmed that additional regional police units will be on standby during peak festival days.
He also noted that at least three more security coordination meetings are planned as Iloilo City prepares to host the upcoming ASEAN Summit later this year.
“All preparations are in place. Our operations against criminality and illegal drugs will continue uninterrupted despite the leadership change,” Legada assured.
Authorities emphasized that these measures aim to protect both local residents and thousands of visitors expected to flood the city streets, ensuring a safe, orderly, and incident-free Dinagyang Festival. IMT
