Kalibo to impose gun ban for Ati-Atihan festival

Authorities will enforce a gun ban in Kalibo, Aklan for the upcoming celebration of the Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan, one of the Philippines' largest festivals that regularly draws large crowds of devotees and tourists alike.

Police Colonel Victor Romanillos Jr,  provincial director of Aklan police, said the gun ban would be strictly enforced from Jan. 15 to 21, according to a report by Ava Marie Moises of Super Radyo Kalibo.

The report added that office of Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Benjamin Acorda Jr. promptly approved the request of the Sangguniang Bayan of Kalibo to implement the gun ban.

Some 2,000 policemen will be deployed around the municipality during the Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-atihan Festival, regarded by locals as "The Mother of All Festivals."

An initial sendoff ceremony was conducted last Friday for the deployment of about 500 policemen who will form part of the security contingent.

The vibrant colors of the Ati-Atihan festivities were back on full display last year after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. — VDV, GMA Integrated News