Security eyes ‘zero major crime incident’ during Ati-Atihan Tamboe Sadsad salvo

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

The Philippine National Police (PNP) targets zero major crime incident during the October 26 Tamboe Sadsad Ati-Atihan opening salvo in Kalibo, Aklan.

PHOTO AKLAN FORUM JOURNAL

More than 200 uniformed policemen, volunteers and force multipliers will be deployed to ensure the safety and security of merrymakers, residents and tourists alike, according to Kalibo police chief Superintendent Richard Mepania.

Traffic and security plans are being finalized with Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (Kasafi) and Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) for the sneak preview of 2019 Ati-Atihan festival in honor of Senor Sto. Nino de Kalibo.

Tamboe Sadsad Salvo features street dancing of Ati-Atihan tribes and groups and outdoor night party on October 26. More than 2,000 merrymakers will be joining the festivities.

“We will maintain a zero incident on major crime, enforce the law, prevent and control crimes, maintain peace and order and ensure public safety during the opening salvo,” Mepania said.

The local police will be using the security framework used in the hosting of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) and major regional festivals.

Mepania also appealed to Ati-Atihan tribe and group leaders during a meeting on September 22 to observe the existing municipal ordinances.

“Don’t bring bottled alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, illegal drugs, bladed and improvised weapons during the street dancing. No smoking in public places,” Mepania stressed.  

Aside from security personnel assigned around Kalibo Pastrana Park, traffic enforcers and policemen will be deployed for the traffic re-routing to maintain smooth and orderly traffic flow.

Responders from Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP-Kalibo) are ready to respond to emergencies. Maximum security for VIPs and guests will be provided also by the police.

Mepania said evacuation and rescue plans are also laid out in anticipation of major incidents. Security drones will be flying over the massive crowd of merrymakers to provide additional security and monitor traffic better.  

“We are confident na matiwasay at successful ang Ati-Atihan opening salvo natin,” he added.