At least 2,458 police personnel will be deployed in Kalibo, Aklan to maintain peace and order during the Kalibo Santo Niño Ati-atihan Festival 2026, deemed the "mother of all festivals."

As of this writing, the "sadsad" or merrymaking has commenced at roads in Kalibo as part of the celebration.

Thousands are expected to participate in the highlights of the festival on Saturday, January 17, and Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Aside from police personnel, at least 45 personnel will be deployed by the Philippine Coast Guard, 47 from the Philippine Army, and 185 emergency personnel.

“Para ma-ensure talaga natin na magiging peaceful at safe not only sa local tourists natin, pati na rin mga international tourists natin na mag-jo-join sa Ati-atihan Festival,” Major Lailyn Sencil, spokesperson of Police Regional Office 6, said.

The send-off ceremony was held on Wednesday, January 14, at Aklan Police Provincial Office.

Help desks are mounted at the entry and exit points of the festival grounds where emergency responders and personnel of the Philippine Red Cross are also deployed.

A few residents said they feel safe joining in the “sadsad” (merrymaking) because of intensified police visibility.

“It’s a good thing na maraming police dito sa Kalibo Ati-atihan because we feel safe and kapag maraming police ang nakikita, we the Aklanons and the guests feel safe and makakapag-enjoy todo,” said Jon Rovic Mirasol, a participant in the merrymaking.

Personnel of the Regional Explosive and Ordnance Division and K9 Unit will also be deployed in case of threats to peace and order.