PRO 6 braces for region's top festivals
Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 regional director Chief Supt. Wilfredo V. Dulay, Sr. ordered the creation of task groups to plan out security measures for the coming two biggest festivals in the region, the Ati-atihan of Kalibo, Aklan and Dinagyang of Iloilo.
Dulay said, while the Philippine National Police will play the lead role in the maintenance of peace and order during the two celebrations, the Philippine Army will actively render support role.
"About 500 additional PNP personnel from other units will be deployed to augment the security force in each of the festivals," Dulay said "we have also many force multipliers to help us in these endeavors."
Aklan Police Provincial Director Senior Supt. Benigno Durana, Jr. heads the Task Group Ati-Atihan 2008 while Iloilo City Director Senior Supt. Wesley Barayuga leads the Task Group Dinagyang 2008.
The two task groups are composed of several sub-task groups which will deal with crowd control, area security, traffic management, intelligence security and other concerns deemed necessary in order to provide maximum security coverage to the celebration.
Likewise, PNP Assistance Centers will be established in strategic areas to accommodate inquiries, complaints and other concerns. Also, medical teams in coordination with the Regional Health Service Office 6, Philippine National Red Cross and other volunteer groups will be posted to provide immediate medical aids to merry makers.
Dulay, however, appeals to those who will be attending the various activities during the festivals to be cautious of their safety and security. "Beware of pickpockets and robbers," he warned.