Iloilo City authorities have finalized a comprehensive security and safety blueprint for the upcoming Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan and Dinagyang Festival 2026 highlights. With thousands of personnel set for deployment, the city aims to ensure a secure and smooth celebration for all attendees.
Emergency and Medical Readiness
A dedicated emergency task group will field 655 personnel to handle any incidents during the festivities. This force is backed by substantial equipment, including 32 ambulances, six rescue trucks, 10 fire engines, and 49 ground teams. Medical units will be stationed at all major judging areas to provide immediate care.
The Sub-Site Task Group for Emergency Preparedness and Response (STTG-EPR), led by CDRRMO's Donna Magno and Search and Rescue Commander Darwin Joemil Papa, will operate an area command system. A central command in City Proper will coordinate with incident management teams at each judging location.
Specific areas have assigned managers: the Iloilo Sports Complex (Judging Area 3) falls under the Provincial DRRMO and Health Office; La Paz (Area 2) will be managed by the Federation Fire Volunteer Organization; and the Freedom Grandstand will be overseen by the ICAG Fire Brigade. Support comes from the Philippine Red Cross-Iloilo, City Health Office, and the Bureau of Fire Protection.
Robust Security and Peace & Order Plans
On the security front, Iloilo City Police Office Director Colonel Wilbert Parilla confirmed the PNP's ready plan. A total of 2,167 uniformed police officers will be mobilized, supported by over 2,000 force multipliers from auxiliary groups.
Key security measures include the strict enforcement of a gun ban, a prohibition on backpacks in festival zones, and the setup of 10 border checkpoints to control entry points. Colonel Parilla also revealed that a request for signal jamming capability is pending, a measure often used to prevent remote explosive detonations during large gatherings.
The command structure includes Lieutenant Colonel Lindley Barrientos as Security Commander and Police Lieutenant Colonel Lorenez Losaria leading the Peace and Order task group.
Traffic Management and Road Closures
Managing the expected huge crowds and vehicle flow is a top priority. The Public Order and Safety Management Office (POSMO) has outlined extensive preparations. Road closures will be in effect from January 23 to 25, covering key sections of the City Proper.
POSMO chief of operations Cyril Octavio reported ongoing road clearing operations and encouraged private vehicle owners to park outside the main festival borders. This strategy aims to reduce congestion and promote Iloilo City's identity as a walkable urban center.
Designated parking areas have been identified along Delgado Street, Rizal Street, Gen. Hughes, Garden of Love, Super Terminal, and Iloilo Central Market. POSMO head Retired Police Colonel Uldarico Garbanzos stated that traffic enforcers, POSMO staff, green guards, and other auxiliary units will be deployed for crowd and crime control throughout the event period.
With these layered plans covering emergency response, security, and traffic, Iloilo City officials express confidence in hosting a safe and memorable Dinagyang and Kasadyahan celebration for residents and visitors alike in 2026.
