AKLAN — More than 600 police personnel have been formally deployed in Kalibo to ensure peace and order during the upcoming Kalibo Sr. Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival 2026.
The initial deployment, conducted through a Site Task Group Initial Deployment ceremony, was held Friday morning, January 9, at Pastrana Park and was attended by police units from all 17 municipalities of Aklan, including personnel from the Aklan Police Provincial Office (PPO), Aviation Security Group (AVSE), Special Action Force (SAF), Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), Aklan Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), and other police units.
Authorities said the 600 police officers are part of the first wave of a total of about 2,400 security personnel who will be deployed throughout the duration of the festival.
Additional augmentation forces from Police Regional Office 6 and other parts of Western Visayas are also expected to arrive next week to further strengthen security measures as festival activities reach their peak.
Officials said the intensified police presence aims to ensure the safety of devotees, tourists, and local residents during one of the biggest and most anticipated festivals in Aklan.
The Ati-Atihan Festival, held in honor of the Señor Santo Niño, annually draws thousands of visitors from across the country and abroad./PN
