7,300 force multipliers, PNP to secure Dinagyang

ILOILO CITY — The Police Regional Office Region 6 (PRO-6) aims to achieve zero crime during the Dinagyang Festival with the deployment of about 7,300 law enforcement officers.

The PRO-6 deployed a total of 7,257 authorities, including 3,369 from the Philippine National Police and 3,888 force multipliers from various agencies and volunteer groups.

DEPLOYED A total of 7,300 law enforcement personnel, shown here during the send-off ceremony on Jan. 22, 2025, were deployed to ensure the safety and security of the Dinagyang Festival. PHOTO BY RJAY ZURIAGA CASTOR

Some of the deployed officers already completed their assignments during the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan on Jan. 18-19.

Although the number of security personnel this year is lower than the 8,607 officers deployed in 2024, PRO-6 Director BGen. Jack Wanky assured the public that robust security measures are in place to maintain a safe and peaceful environment throughout the festival.

"We anticipate this week-long security coverage to be taxing physically, emotionally, and psychologically. This attests to our commitment to service, dedication to duty, and resilience," said Wanky during a send-off ceremony on Wednesday.

He emphasized that the success metrics for their security operation include zero major crime incidents, no street crimes, and effective emergency response.

He highlighted the need for heightened security due to the expected influx of local and international tourists and the increased presence of politicians, with the local elections just around the corner.

"There will be an increase in the convergence areas of people who will be coming for the activity. Our role then is to ensure that security threats cannot make way into the spaces and disrupt the celebration," added the top Region 6 policeman.

To address these challenges, the PRO-6 also deployed patrol and mobile units and established command posts and police assistance desks in strategic areas.