Cagayan de oro: The Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO) has mobilized its personnel in preparation for the month-long "Higala-ay Festival" set for August. Col. Dexter Paje, the director of COCPO, emphasized the importance of increased police visibility as a central strategy to ensure the safety and security of both residents and visitors during the festivities.

According to Philippines News Agency, a security force comprising 1,000 personnel, supplemented by additional forces from the Philippine Army (PA) and the Police Regional Office in Northern Mindanao (PRO-10), is anticipated for deployment throughout the celebration. Despite the extensive preparations, Paje clarified that the police force would adhere to the national directive of an eight-hour working shift, with the PA and PRO-10 serving as force multipliers to bolster security efforts.

Paje highlighted the significance of effective time management and strategic deployment of police personnel to ensure they perform their duties efficiently. The security measures will extend to schools across the city, alongside operations related to the festival.

Mark Kenneth Jalapadan, acting head of the City Tourism Office, shared insights about the scale of this year's festival. He stated that the event would feature 53 activities, including nine core events, 12 major events, eight minor events, and 28 parallel events. Jalapadan noted that, despite initial modest planning due to the economic impacts of the Middle East crisis, increased collaboration with partners has allowed the festival to grow larger each year.