More than 7,000 police and security forces are deployed in various parts of Iloilo City and surrounding areas to ensure order and security during the upcoming Dinagyang Festival 2026, according to Western Visayas top cop P/Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan.
The Dinagyang Festival is one of the largest cultural and religious celebrations in the country, known for its colorful street dancing, drum rhythms, and elaborate performances that depict the history and faith of Iloilo.
Sa isang seremonya sa Freedom Grandstand, opisyal na pina-deploy ng Police Regional Office 6 ang kabuuang 7,579 police personnel at force multipliers. “Kasama sa heightened security preparations ang deployment na ito dahil inaasahang dadagsain ng libu-libong deboto, performers, at turista ang lungsod para sa taunang selebrasyon,” ani Ligan.
Also present at the ceremony were Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas and Dr. Raul N. Banias, representative of Iloilo Governor Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr., demonstrating the strong support of the local government in the efforts of the Philippine National Police and partner agencies. Also included are AFP, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, City Traffic and Transport Management Office, and other force multipliers.
Efren “Bata” Reyes and Francisco “Django” Bustamante led the line-up of stars, along with foreign legends Ralf “The Kaiser” Souquet and Earl “The Pearl” Strickland. Despite a nervous start, Bustamante prevailed over Strickland by a score of 11–9, while receiving the cheers and support of the audience.
