Over 7,000 members of state security forces have been deployed to ensure peace and order during the Dinagyang Festival 2025.

Security personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Iloilo City Disaster Risk and Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), other law enforcement agencies, including force multipliers received blessing in a send-off ceremony on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. 

Vehicles and equipment were also blessed. 

Beat patrollers and command posts will comprise the site task group.

It is the goal of the site task group to achieve zero major incidence during the Dinagyang 2025 festivity.

“The barometers of the success should be number one, zero major crime incident. Number two is no street crimes and number three is efficient and effective security response on emergencies,” said Police Regional Office 6 Director, Brigadier General Jack Wanky.

Bringing of sharp objects, firearms, and other deadly weapons is strictly prohibited during the celebration, as well as liquor (whether in bottles, cans, or even in glasses), while participating in the revelry.

Meanwhile, the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI) said that world-class performances of nine tribes in the “Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan” on Saturday, January 25, 2025, should be expected. 

The activity is a prelude to the Dinagyang Festival.

Eight contingents will perform in the Dinagyang Tribes Competition on Sunday, January 26, 2025.

Grand performances in the Dinagyang Ilomination on Friday, January 24, 2025 are also expected because of the first-ever participation of contingents from other regions such as Hermosa Festival of Zamboanga City and Tanglawan Festival of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan.

“As promised, every year naga-level up kita para mas daku kag matahum pa gid ang aton festival,” Allan Tan, IFFI president, said.

Further, portalets (portable toilets) have already been put up by the Iloilo City General Services Office (GSO) at the judging stations in the downtown area.

At least 78 portalets have been mounted, while approximately 300 sweepers will be deployed during the highlights of the festival.

Enough number of garbage receptacles are assured in conspicuous places where spectators are expected to flock, while operators of food kiosks have been advised to provide their own garbage bags.

“Kun pwede mangin responsible kita sa pag-dispose sang aton waste. Kuntani indi kita mag-urinate bisan diin lang nga public place,” Engr. Neil Ravena, GSO head said.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas has warned that violators or persons out to disrupt the celebration will be imprisoned.