ILOILO CITY – The 10-day gun ban in this city for the 2024 Dinagyang Festival starts at midnight on Friday, January 19.
“We want to ensure a firearm-free Dinagyang festival. Let’s celebrate together in harmony, respecting the safety measures for a secure and enjoyable time while showing our devotion to Señor Santo Niño,” said Police Col. Joeresty Coronica, director of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO).

POLICE secure the 2020 Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City. (Tara Yap)
The temporary suspension of the Permits to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFORs) for the Dinagyang is part of the security measures approved by Police Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
The gun ban will last for more than a week similar to last year. The gun ban usually lasted for three days before the Dinagyang 2023 edition.
The gun ban will end at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, January 29, right after the culmination of the festival that honors the Santo Niño (Child Jesus).
Policemen as well as personnel of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) are allowed to carry firearms.