Iloilo city: A total of 7,579 security personnel and force multipliers were deployed on Wednesday to ensure peace and order during the 2026 Iloilo Dinagyang Festival. In his message during the send-off ceremony, Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) officer in charge and commander of Site Task Group Dinagyang, Col. Wilbert Parilla, emphasized the festival as a celebration of faith, culture, and unity.

According to Philippines News Agency, the security force consists of various specialized personnel, including 78 for command and control, 2,167 for security, 1,605 for peace and order, 655 for emergency preparedness and response, 877 for traffic management, and 2,197 force multipliers. They are supported by 2,823 operational resources, such as patrol vehicles, motorcycles, communication equipment, man trucks, ambulances, body-worn cameras, and drones.

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Tre±as called for public cooperation with the security personnel, urging attendees to celebrate responsibly and respectfully to maintain a safe and harmonious festival atmosphere.

Meanwhile, the ICPO Drug Enforcement Unit conducted an anti-drug operation in Barangay Baldoza, La Paz District, arresting three high-value individuals and seizing PHP2.4 million worth of suspected shabu. The suspects are facing charges under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Col. Parilla warned against exploiting the festival for illegal activities, reiterating the focus on faith, unity, and joy during the celebrations.