While Ilonggos and visitors to Iloilo City were preoccupied with their participation to the merrymaking during the Dinagyang Festival 2025, lawless elements were out to take advantage of the situation.

In Barangay Infante, Molo District, a couple was arrested for alleged theft.

The suspects were identified as Maricar de Leon and JP Santos who were collared dawn on January 26, 2025 for stealing reportedly 15 cellphones.

Minutes later, Kevin Keeneth Fresto, pinpointed as their leader, was nabbed. Found in Fresto’s possession are additional 15 cellphones.

Police established that the suspects are from Tondo, Manila.

A case for theft has been filed against the three suspects.

Pickpockets in the downtown area were among other persons nabbed by the authorities.

Police have also intervened in a few instances of bickering among revelers during the festivity.

Despite these incidents, no serious untoward incident was recorded, which rendered the celebration of Dinagyang Festival 2025 “generally peaceful.”

“We consider na ang lahat ng events, not only major events and side events, but also on guests sa mga hotel, restaurants, and bars,” according to Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) Director, Colonel Kim Legada.

Based on police estimates, over P300,000 individuals participated in the celebration.

Over 7,000 state security forces and force multipliers were deployed to ensure peace and order during the festivity.

Most Ilonggos interviewed by GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas news team have felt the Dinagyang spirit, as well as the safety of the community through police visibility.

Ilonggos said they were able to enjoy the Dinagyang Festival 2025 without having to look over their shoulder all the time.

“Mula pa noong Biyernes ng hapon ang pag-iikot namin. Hanggang kagabi, ala una na kami nakauwi,” Yanne, a reveler, said.

“Hindi naman naguluhan. Okay naman. Masaya,” Angelito Sarsino, another reveler, said.

Meanwhile, at least 50 food kiosk owners or operators joined the food festival at Delgado and Iznart Streets in Iloilo City proper compared to over 20 food kiosks in 2024, which posted of  about 100- percent increase.

In spite of various challenges, the Iloilo Hotels, Restaurants and Resorts Association (IHRRA) considered the food festival a huge success.

“Sa tingin ko, although we are challenged by certain issues, economic issues, inflation, our labor cost has gone up, I think our members have managed to turn over a profit,” according to Happy Abenir, president of IHRRA.