BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) deployed 1,725 additional police personnel to Kalibo, Aklan to augment the security forces for this year’s Señor Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Festival.
The deployment was carried out on Monday, January 13, under the direct supervision of PRO-6 director Brigadier General Jack L. Wanky.
“This move is part of the PRO-6’s comprehensive plan to maintain security during the annual celebration, which is expected to draw thousands of tourists and devotees from various parts of the country, on January 18 to 19,” the PRO-6 said.
With a large crowd anticipated at the religious festival, PRO-6 continues to coordinate with local government units and other concerned agencies to ensure the smooth flow of events.
Meanwhile, Kalibo police reminded the merrymakers, visitors and residents to be on the lookout for street closures and parking restrictions for the festivities.
Mayor Juris Sucro has also issued an executive order prohibiting smoking and vaping in festival zones and other public places, likewise, the carrying of glass-bottled drinks, unregistered drones, possession of bladed weapons and firearms, unauthorized ambulant vendors and littering.
The Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival, with over 150,000 expected attendees this year, has grown into a globally-recognized festival, since its inception in 1960s. /PN
