PGMA to witness Kasadyahan '06
Iloilo City -- Expect a very tight security measures this coming Dinagyang celebration particularly at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand as President Gloria-Macapagal Arroyo already confirmed her attendance on the 28th.
Mayor Jerry Treņas said Pres. Arroyo will witness the Kasadyahan competition on January 28. It was not clear though if the president will stay overnight in the city to witness the Dinagyang highlight the following day.
He said the members of the Iloilo City Police Office would be augmented by forces from the Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 and the Presidential Security Group (PSG). The PSG is primarily tasked to secure the President. While, the local police is in charge of the security preparation for the festivity.
The presence of the President is expected to disrupt the performances of the different competing groups should she arrive late. There are 11 participating groups to perform during the Kasadyahan. They are the Mandurriaonon (Mandurriao), Paghidaet (La Paz National High School), Maragtas (West Visayas State University), Bana-ag (Anilao), Bayluhay (San Jose, Antique), Kamando (Leon), Tultugan (Maasin), Salakayan (Miag-ao), Tigbauan, Urukay Binirayan (Antique) and St. Therese MTCC.
Other than the President, the ambassador of Israel and other cabinet officials are expected to witness the celebration. Senators Edgardo Angara and Jamby Madrigal have also confirmed their attendance in this year's Dinagyang.