ILOILO City – With thousands of spectators and vehicles expected to flood the city for the highlight events of the 2026 Dinagyang Festival, the Iloilo City Traffic and Transportation Management Office (ICTTMO) vowed a stricter and sustained enforcement of clamping operations against illegally parked vehicles.
To keep major roads clear and traffic flowing, ICTTMO chief Uldarico Garbanzos said illegal parking, double parking, and abandoned vehicles along parade and performance routes will not be tolerated.
Firm enforcement is crucial to public safety and emergency access during the festival rush, he explained.
“We expect a significant increase in traffic volume during the Dinagyang highlights. That is why we are reminding motorists to be disciplined and responsible. Clamping operations will continue, and violators will be dealt with accordingly,” Garbanzos said.
The Dinagyang highlights will be on January 24 (Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan) and January 25 (Ati tribes competition).
According to Garbanzos, the affected roads are not only designated parade routes but also vital emergency corridors that must remain unobstructed throughout the celebrations.
“These roads are also emergency access points. Any illegally parked or abandoned vehicle can cause serious delays and compromise public safety,” he said.
Garbanzos urged motorists to strictly follow traffic flow schemes and to use designated off-site parking areas, warning that vehicles parked in prohibited zones — especially near tribal routes — will be clamped without exception.
“We are not doing this to inconvenience motorists, but to ensure that traffic remains manageable and that everyone can enjoy the festival safely,” he said.
He also announced that several downtown roads, including Iznart Street and J.M. Basa Street, will be closed during the festival highlights, while Quezon Street and Mabini Street will be designated as emergency lanes exclusively for ambulances, fire trucks, and vehicles carrying essential goods.
“These emergency lanes must remain clear at all times. We will not tolerate parking or stopping in these areas because they are critical for emergency response,” Garbanzos stressed.
The ICTTMO will deploy traffic personnel in full force to manage traffic flow, assist motorists, and enforce regulations.
Garbanzos further advised the public to plan trips ahead, heed official traffic advisories, and consider using public transportation.
“Dinagyang is a celebration for all Ilonggos and our visitors. With discipline and cooperation from everyone, we can keep our roads orderly and ensure a safe, smooth, and enjoyable festival for all,” he said./PN
