Security plans for Kalibo festival in place

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - The Philippine National Police (PNP) is getting ready to implement the security plans for the famous Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival in honor of Senor Sto. Nino this January.
Senior Superintendent Epifanio Bragais, Jr. said the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) has presented its security plans at the Police Regional Office (PRO-6) yesterday.

Some 300 policemen from PRO-6 would be fielded in strategic areas to help maintain order around the town of Kalibo and to ensure the security of devotees, tourists and revelers of the religious festival.

Bragais also bared the additional security such as auxiliary police force and volunteers are prepared for the upcoming Ati-Atihan events slated January 10 to 16, 2011.

"Aside from the PNP, the local Philippine Army personnel and reservists will also be deployed for the strict implementation of security measures," Bragais said.

In the past Ati-Atihan festivals, the police set-up checkpoints and community police assistance centers to provide tight security for thousands of revelers and guests. Bragais said the security preparations are now in place since the APPO through the Kalibo police station have already met with the festival peace and order committee for the security, traffic and peace and order plans.

Meanwhile, festival organizer Kalibo Sto. Nino Foundation, Inc. (KASAFI) is busy preparing a series of colorful and festive activities to attract devotees and tourists next year.

Higante contest and Aklan Festivals Parade, search for Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan, Hala Bira Ati-Atihan Nights, festival exhibits, Balik-Ati and Modern Tribal groups contest, Kaean-an sa Plasa, Ati-Atihan product showcase, pilgrims' mass and traditional religious procession and paeapak or pahilot are part of the much-anticipated celebration held annually every third week of January.

KASAFI chairman Albert Menez said the country's hottest Pinoy rock bands and artists, courtesy of San Miguel Beer, Coca Cola Bottlers Philippines, Smart Communication and Globe Telecom, fires up the Kalibo Magsaysay Park during the Hala Bira Ati-Atihan nights.

Menez said GMA 7's primetime programs lead stars will also treat their fans on January 14, 2011 for their Kapuso Ati-Atihan show.