A total of 300 additional security personnel were deployed in Bacolod City on Thursday, Oct. 16, to secure the highlights of the 46th MassKara Festival from Oct. 17 to 19. (Photo courtesy of Bacolod City Police Office)
BACOLOD CITY – An additional 300 police officers from Iloilo and Siquijor were deployed in this highly-urbanized city on Thursday, Oct. 16, to reinforce security operations during the three-day highlight of this year’s MassKara Festival.
Their deployment aims to boost police visibility from Oct. 17 to 19 especially with the opening of another festival site, the Lacson Tourism Strip, and the highly-anticipated street dance and arena competition.
Police Col. Joeresty Coronica, Bacolod City police director, thanked them for their support.
An initial contingent of 1,500 police personnel has been actively maintaining peace and order in this year’s celebration since Oct. 1.
Mark Garcia, site director for the Lacson Tourism Strip, confirmed that safety protocols and emergency contingency plans are firmly in place, especially with the full closure of Lacson St. starting Thursday.
In light of recent tremors affecting this city, evacuation points have been prepared, and marshals will assist festival-goers by guiding them through safe pathways marked with glow tape and barricades.
People were advised not to re-enter stages or tents until safety officials give the all-clear.