Over 6,000 security forces expected to be deployed

An over 6,000-strong security force is expected to be deployed throughout Iloilo City beginning January 24, ahead of the Iloilo Dinagyang Festival highlights, which are scheduled from January 25 to 27.

“We will be strict in the implementation of security measures,” explained Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) Operations and Plans deputy, Police Chief Inspector Mercylin S. Duero. “Especially with prohibited items, which will be subjected to thorough inspection.”

Among the items banned during festival highlights include backpacks, large luggage, bladed weapons, pointed sticks, buckled knives, and glass bottles.

“We will have choke-and-checkpoints [at] every entry center of activities,” said ICPO chief, Police Senior Superintendent Martin Defensor, Jr. “We will also deploy [a] task unit for anti-criminality at the city’s boundary to maintain peace and order.”

Meanwhile, among other policies and security measures during the festival, the curfew for minors begins at 10:00 p.m., sound systems can only be operated until 11:00 p.m., alcohol sales run until 2:00 a.m., and cell phone signals will be shut down between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. from January 26 to 27./WDJ