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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Visayas devider 2,495 security forces deployed for MassKara Festival

2,495 security forces deployed for MassKara Festival

Published Sep 30, 2025 05:26 pm
SECURITY forces have been deployed to ensure peace and order during the 46th MassKara Festiva in Bacolod City from Oct. 1 to 19. (Glazyl Masculino)
SECURITY forces have been deployed to ensure peace and order during the 46th MassKara Festiva in Bacolod City from Oct. 1 to 19. (Glazyl Masculino)
BACOLOD CITY – A total of 2,495 security forces were deployed on Tuesday, Sept. 30, to ensure peace and order during the 19-day MassKara Festival celebration in this highly-urbanized city starting Oct. 1.
Police Col. Joeresty Coronica, Bacolod police director, and Police Col. Dennis Esguerra, acting deputy regional director for administration of the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), who represented Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas, PRO-NIR director, led the send-off ceremony of troops and resources at the Bacolod City Police Office headquarters in Barangay Singcang-Airport here.
The first batch of security forces that will be deployed starting Oct. 1 include 1,320 policemen, 64 personnel from other law enforcement agencies, including the Philippine Army, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP); 250 force multipliers, 80 members from rescue groups and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), and 270 members of the Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department (BTTMD), totaling 1,984.
During the highlights from Oct. 16 to 19, 300 more policemen from PRO-6 (Western Visayas), and 211 officers, totaling 511, will be deployed.
These troops were divided in two batches to provide maximum security coverage in all key areas of activity, including festival venues, parade routes, public convergence points, transport hubs, and other vital installations in this city.
Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO-NIR spokesperson, said they will be strategically assigned to ensure police visibility, crowd control, traffic management, crime prevention, and immediate response to any untoward incidents.
Specialized units such as the Explosives and Ordnance Division (EOD), Drone Operators, K9 teams, and medical support groups will be mobilized to strengthen the overall security framework of the celebration.
A total of 651 vehicles and equipment will also be used in the entire duration of the security deployment composed of 51 mobile patrol cars, 16 firetrucks, a mobile command center, a MAN truck, two prisoner transport vehicles, 43 motorcycles, 27 ambulances, Civil Disturbance Management (CDM) equipment, drones, and handheld radios.
Ibay said that they are prepared to take on this great task, as they have carefully prepared the security plan and implemented its final phases. 
“We are confident that through our dedication and meticulous preparation, this year’s festival will be celebrated at its finest.”
As task force commander, Ibay reminded them to take care of themselves while rendering their duties and commitment. 
“Stay alert, healthy, and look out for one another as a team. Your dedication and sacrifice will ensure that the smiles of the MassKara Festival remain bright, safe, and secure.”
He said the festival will only be truly successful if it concludes with no major incidents that would put Bacolod City in bad light. 
“As we carry out our duties, let us remember the values of professionalism, discipline, and dedication to service. Together, we will prove once again that this city can host not only the most festive and colorful celebration, but also the safest in the nation.”
He appealed to festival goers and organizers for their cooperation and understanding in the implementation of security measures.

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Bacolod City MassKara Festival
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