The celebration of this year’s Dinagyang Festival was “generally peaceful, safe, and secure,” with no record of major incidents during the duration of the festivities, based on the assessment of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO).
“With no major incidents recorded, the festival once again upheld its reputation as a safe and secure celebration of Iloilo’s rich culture and heritage,” the ICPO said in a statement on Monday.
Task Group Dinagyang deployed 7,257 police officers, supported by force multipliers and partner agencies, strategically deployed in key areas such as performance venues, food festival zones, concert sites, parade routes, transportation hubs, and other public spaces.
Minor issues, such as cases of loss of consciousness, hyperventilation, and intoxication, were promptly addressed, ensuring that the festive atmosphere remained uninterrupted, the statement added.
Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO6) regional director Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky also commended the collective efforts that led to the successful staging of the event.
Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas on Sunday also expressed gratitude to the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc. (IFFI) for their “unparalleled dedication and commitment to making Dinagyang 2025 the best festival in the entire Philippines.”
“Your selflessness in working as volunteers —pro bono— speaks volumes about your passion for Iloilo City and your desire to uplift our local culture and traditions. I am deeply impressed by the countless hours, effort, and personal resources you have contributed to ensure the success of this world-class celebration,” he said.
The festival celebration ended with the awarding of prizes to contingents joining the ILOmination Philippine Light Festival, Festive Parade Sponsors Mardi Gras, Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan, SadSad Sa Calle Real, and Tribes Competition.
Declared champions were Tribu Paghidaet for Tribes Competition, Tultugan Festival for Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan, and Bailes de Luces from La Castellana, Negros Occidental for ILOmination.
Tribu Familia Sagasa was named Darling of the Crowd for the SadSad Sa Calle Real and Jollibee Foods Corporation for the Festive Parade Sponsors Mardi Gras. (PNA)
