130 Police Personnel Deployed for 30th Sinigayan Festival Security in Sagay
The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) has mobilized a total of 130 security personnel to safeguard the activities of the 30th Sinigayan Festival, which runs from March 16 to 20, 2026. This significant deployment underscores a robust commitment to public safety during one of Sagay City's premier cultural celebrations.
Send-Off Ceremony and Leadership Involvement
A formal send-off ceremony was conducted on Sunday, March 15, at the Sagay City Government Center. The event was led by Sagay Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva, alongside key police officials including Colonel Dennis Wenceslao, Lieutenant Colonel Alvimar Flores—commander of the Sagay City Police Station—and Lieutenant Colonel Serafin Jun Reyes, commander of the Force Company of the Negros Occidental Police Mobile Force Company. This gathering symbolized the unified effort between local government and law enforcement.
Emphasis on Collaboration and Public Trust
Colonel Dennis Wenceslao highlighted that the Sinigayan Festival is not merely a cultural and historical celebration but also a demonstration of community unity. "Sinigayan is not only a celebration of culture and history. It also shows the unity of the community, the police, and the government in maintaining peace," he stated. Wenceslao further noted that successful security operations enhance public trust, describing service as a vocation dedicated to the people. He emphasized that security during major events relies on strong partnerships, adding, "Security is always a partnership between the police, the community, and the local government."
Deployment Details and Strategic Coverage
Lieutenant Colonel Alvimar Flores provided specifics on the deployment, which covers key festival venues and activity areas across Sagay City. Of the 130 personnel, approximately 50 are from Nocppo, augmenting the existing security forces in the city. Flores remarked that this deployment reflects the ongoing partnership between the police and local government in ensuring public safety. "May this occasion strengthen our unity and remind our personnel that the PNP Sagay and the local government stand behind them in their mission to serve and protect," he said.
Ceremonial Elements and Official Gratitude
The send-off ceremony included a blessing of the troops led by Rev. Fr. Joferson Garces of St. Joseph Parish Church, adding a spiritual dimension to the security preparations. Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva expressed profound gratitude to the police and security forces for their unwavering commitment. "Year in and year out, you are the ones who secure this celebration. As we celebrate from March 16 to 20, you are making sure that the Sinigayan Festival remains a peaceful and enjoyable event for everyone," Cueva affirmed. He clarified that the deployment aims to ensure the safety of both residents and visitors as Sagay City hosts the 30th Sinigayan Festival, featuring a diverse array of cultural, sports, and entertainment activities.
