GUIMARAS — A total of 568 security, public safety, maritime and emergency response personnel were deployed on May 14 to ensure the safe and orderly celebration of the Manggahan Festival, which officially opened on May 15.
The deployment, organized under Task Group Manggahan, brings together personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), emergency medical teams, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Search and Rescue Team, the Provincial Law Enforcement and Public Safety Office, and force multipliers.
The security contingent is supported by patrol cars, motorcycle units, response boats, K-9 units and aerial drones for monitoring and surveillance.
Provincial authorities said the heightened security and emergency response measures are intended to provide both residents and tourists with a safe and enjoyable festival experience.
To accommodate the expected influx of visitors during the festival, extended trips for roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) vessels and fiber boats will be implemented from May 15 to 24.
Regular daily trips departing at 6 a.m. will continue as scheduled.
For RoRo vessels, additional trips will operate from 7 p.m. to 12 midnight from May 16 to 24.
For fiber boats, extended trips will follow this schedule:
*May 15 to 17: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. of the following day;
*May 18 to 19: 10 p.m. to 12 midnight; and
*May 20 to 24: 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. of the following day.
Passengers are advised to arrive early at ports to avoid delays due to increased passenger volume, prepare valid travel documents, and bring exact fare or small bills for faster processing.
Travelers are also encouraged to pack light, stay hydrated and wear comfortable clothing.
Authorities urged the public to cooperate with port personnel and staff of Tourist Guest Assistance Centers to ensure smooth travel operations throughout the festival.
The annual Manggahan Festival, known for showcasing Guimaras’ world-famous mangoes and rich cultural heritage, is expected to draw thousands of local and foreign tourists over the 10-day celebration./PN
