The Iloilo Freedom Grandstand became the center of recognition and celebration on January 27, 2025, as various law enforcement units gathered for the Closing and Awarding Ceremony of Task Group Dinagyang 2025. This momentous occasion had served as a way to honor the dedication and commitment of the personnel who played a vital role in ensuring the success of the Dinagyang Festival 2025.
The weeklong celebration was officially launched on January 22, 2025 attended by combined forces assigned to peacekeeping and safekeeping missions, to include personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP/Army), City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), City Health Office (CHO), Traffic and Transportation Management Office (TTMO), Public Safety and Management Office (POSMO), volunteer groups, and private sector partners. A total of 7,257 personnel from various law enforcement units had been deployed. Of this number, 3,369 personnel come from PNP, 23 from AFP, 268 from the Philippine Coast Guard, 754 from the Iloilo City Traffic and Transportation Management Office, and 2,467 from force multipliers.
The recently concluded event was attended by the brave men and women from different law enforcement agencies and supporting groups who were deployed during the Dinagyang Festival. Their primary mission was to uphold peace and order, ensuring the safety and security of festival-goers, participants, and tourists. Their presence and hard work had contributed significantly to maintaining a harmonious and organized celebration.
Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) Regional Director/Task Group Commander Police Brigadier General Jack L Wanky, had delivered the keynote message, represented by Deputy Regional Director for Operations Police Colonel Joriz A Cantoria, proudly declaring, “The goal was to ensure that security threats cannot make way into these places and disrupt the celebration. And we did it. I am proud to say—Mission Accomplished!”
PCol Cantoria shared the significant achievements of TG Dinagyang 2025, emphasizing the absence of major crime incidents during the festival. “While there were three theft cases, the suspects were immediately arrested. This demonstrates how our strategic deployment, increased police visibility, and presence made our response efficient and effective,” he said. He had also expressed gratitude to the force multipliers, volunteer groups, and all personnel involved, emphasizing that their collective efforts had showcased shared responsibility.
As a token of appreciation, Task Group Dinagyang presented awards to outstanding individuals and units who had displayed exemplary service, dedication, and unwavering support during the festival. These awards were to recognize their significant contributions in maintaining the safety and smooth flow of activities. The efforts of the awardees had, indeed reflected the collective strength and cooperation of law enforcement agencies, government units, and volunteers.
According to the official records of Task Group Dinagyang, Dinagyang Festival 2025 was officially declared “Generally Peaceful.” No major incidents or security threats were recorded throughout the celebration, proving the efficiency and effectiveness of the security measures implemented. This achievement had shown the commitment of the PRO6 personnel, and the coordination and vigilance of all forces who had been involved.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P Treñas, had also expressed his heartfelt message. He acknowledged the efforts and sacrifices of everyone involved and emphasized that the success of the Dinagyang Festival 2025 was the result of strong collaboration. Mayor Treñas gave a snappy salute to the TG Dinagyang team, commending them for a job well done.
Beyond being a religious and cultural event, the Dinagyang Festival has become a symbol of unity, cooperation, and pride for the people of Iloilo City. Year after year, it highlights the city’s rich history, deep-rooted traditions, and strong community spirit. The successful execution of this year’s festival once again had demonstrated how collaboration between the government, law enforcement, and the private sector plays a crucial role in preserving the festival’s legacy.
The awards and recognition given during the ceremony serve as a symbol of gratitude and appreciation for the relentless efforts of the authorities and volunteers who had worked tirelessly behind the scenes. Their dedication ensures that Dinagyang remains one of the best, most vibrant, and safest festivals in the country. As the festival continues to grow in prestige, the commitment to excellence, security, and cultural preservation remains stronger than ever.
