ICPO assures heightened police presence for Holidays, Dinagyang

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The Iloilo City Police Office will deploy more personnel in advance of the traditional Simbang Gabi and the Dinagyang Festival 2024 Pamukaw over the weekend.

Colonel Joeresty Coronica, Iloilo City police chief, said that they would heighten police visibility in places of worship, commercial areas, major streets, and other places of convergence.

“As I’ve always said, our main objective is for the people to feel safe and secure while enjoying the Holidays,” he said.

Coronica also assured that enough personnel will be deployed against petty crimes and other modus operandi that are usually perpetrated during the Christmas and Dinagyang festival seasons.

Coronica said they have used the crime clock in deploying police personnel in areas where there are recorded high incidences of crime.

These measures, he added, are primarily aimed at curbing petty crimes like theft, and robbery, and other modus such as basag kotse, budol-budol, pickpocketing, and snatching among others which would victimize churchgoers and spectators.

Relatedly, Coronica always reminded the public to be vigilant against swindlers.

“Do not easily trust strangers or individuals who try to befriend you,” he said.

Meanwhile, Police Assistance Desks (PADs) are also established for assistance and response in cases of emergency.

The ICPO has also discouraged the wearing of expensive jewelry or carrying pricey items.

“Finally, always act with caution and be mindful of your personal safety,” he said.

Coroncia also stressed the need to immediately seek help from the nearest police station when they fall prey to robbers or swindlers.