The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday said a daily average of 2,980 personnel will be deployed from January 14 to 18 to ensure safety during the Ati-Atihan Festival in Kalibo, Aklan.
Col. Julius Caesar Domingo, chief of the Public Safety Division of the PNP Directorate for Operations, said the deployment will include police officers, soldiers, Coast Guard personnel, and other force multipliers.
Security teams will be positioned at major festival activities, including the Sadsad Panaad contest and the grand procession.
“The PNP has put in place a comprehensive security and deployment plan to ensure the safety of devotees, tourists, and participants throughout the celebration,” Domingo said in a press briefing.
The Ati-Atihan Festival is an ancient tradition honoring the people of Aklan and the Infant Jesus, Señor Santo Niño, according to the Tourism Promotions Board Philippines.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “Nearly 3K cops to secure Ati-Atihan Festival in Aklan”
