ILOILO City – With massive crowds expected to pack major Dinagyang Festival venues, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Iloilo Chapter is setting up dedicated child-friendly spaces to respond to high-risk scenarios involving children getting separated from their parents or guardians amid congestion, distractions, and fast-moving crowds.
Anticipating incidents of lost or unattended children during peak festival activities, the PRC said the facilities are designed to provide immediate protection, emotional support, and temporary care while authorities work to locate families — a preventive measure aimed at avoiding panic, trauma, or harm in densely packed areas.
PRC Iloilo Chapter administrator Gilbert Valderama said the initiative builds on lessons learned from previous Dinagyang celebrations, where child separations were among the recurring risks during large-scale events.
“We started this two years ago and set up one child-friendly space. This year, we are planning to set up two,” Valderama said. “There are instances during big events when children are accidentally left behind. Before, we didn’t have a proper facility to take care of them, so we decided to create a dedicated space for that purpose.”
The child-friendly spaces will serve as secure holding and comfort areas for minors, equipped with toys, books, and play materials such as slides and Lego sets to help reduce anxiety while waiting for their parents or guardians.
“These are small but welcoming facilities where children can play so they won’t feel scared or traumatized,” Valderama said. “The goal is for them to feel safe and comfortable, as if they’re just visiting a play area while waiting.”
At least one child-friendly space will be established at the Iloilo Sports Complex which is Judging Area No. 3 of the Ati tribes competition and Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan contest, and is expected to draw thousands of spectators.
Another facility is being planned near the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, close to the PRC Iloilo Chapter office, a location considered strategic during major festival activities.
Valderama said trained Red Cross personnel and volunteers will man the child-friendly spaces and coordinate closely with festival security teams and local authorities to ensure swift reunification of children with their families.
“With large crowds expected during Dinagyang, this initiative is part of our effort to make the festival safer, especially for children,” he said.
The PRC Iloilo Chapter also urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant at all times and to immediately seek assistance from Red Cross volunteers or authorities if a child becomes separated during the festivities./PN
