ILOILO – Anticipating one of the province’s biggest holiday gatherings, the Iloilo provincial government is rolling out heightened safety, security, and crowd-control measures for the December 5 opening of the Capitol’s Christmas lights and food festival dubbed “Candyland.”
Instead of merely highlighting the festive launch, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) warned the public early this week to prepare for heavy foot traffic, vehicular congestion, and strict safety protocols as thousands are expected to converge on the Capitol grounds.
“As the province of Iloilo gears up for the upcoming Merryland and Foodfest, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) is implementing measures to ensure the safety, order, and overall well-being of all visitors, vendors, and participants,” the advisory stated.
Traffic, rerouting, and parking rules tightened
Motorists are advised to expect congestion around the Capitol area and comply with traffic officers directing rerouting and designated parking areas. Illegal parking and the obstruction of emergency lanes will be strictly penalized.
Commuters, meanwhile, are reminded to take note of temporary rerouting of public utility vehicles and to use only designated loading and unloading zones.
Emergency teams on full deployment
PDRRMO said on-site personnel, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and response units will be stationed throughout the grounds to ensure quick action during medical or security incidents.
General safety reminders include staying alert in crowded areas, securing valuables, and immediately reporting suspicious activities or emergencies.
Health, food, fire safety protocols emphasized
Visitors are advised to purchase food only from accredited vendors, stay hydrated, and approach EMS stations if feeling unwell.
Fire and emergency safety rules include keeping pathways unobstructed, ensuring proper electrical setups for vendors, and following guided evacuation procedures when necessary.
Public urged to plan visits, stay orderly
The PDRRMO also issued “need-to-know” reminders for all attendees, urging them to plan visits early, bring only essential belongings, familiarize themselves with entrance and exit points, and strictly follow marshals and security personnel.
“Keep children close and supervised at all times,” the advisory added.
P3.5-M Christmas lights to brighten Capitol
Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. earlier confirmed that the provincial government allotted P3.5 million for this year’s Christmas lights installation, aiming to create a family-friendly attraction similar to last year’s crowd-drawing display.
“We want it beautiful. May theme kita, na-explain na ina sa akon sang aton General Service Office. Una gusto naton nga manami, again sa gihapon pareho sang nagligad nga tuig para ina sia sa kabataan kag sa aton nga pamilya,” Defensor said.
In 2024, the Capitol grounds were transformed into a “Christmas Village sa Makabagong Pilipinas,” a winter-themed installation funded with P4.8 million.
The province expects even larger crowds this year as Candyland opens with both the holiday lights spectacle and a food festival./PN
