By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has deployed 44 floating assets for today’s fluvial procession of the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City today, January 24.
PCG-Iloilo Station Commander Richard Gura confirmed the deployment during a radio interview.
Out of the 44 assets, 34 will actively participate in the procession. These include four dragon boats, four PCV vessels, one Philippine National Police Maritime Group craft, one fast craft, five speed boats, nine fiber boats, three tugboats, and other support vessels.
The remaining 10 floating assets will remain stationary on standby to provide additional security and support.
The fluvial procession will begin at 2:00 p.m. from the Iloilo Fast Craft Lapuz Wharf, carrying the image of Senior Sto. Niño, and will conclude at Muelle Loney in the City Proper.
Devotees aged 18 to 50 are permitted aboard the vessels during the event.
“There will be personnel assigned during boarding and disembarkation to ensure security, safety, and assistance. We have also prepared medical assistance for any emergencies,” Gura said.
Gura assured the public of the PCG’s readiness for the festival’s highlights, particularly on January 26.
The agency has also deployed 268 personnel to oversee security at ports and terminals.
K-9 units will be stationed at strategic locations to prevent the entry of illegal substances, such as drugs, into the province.
The Dinagyang Festival, one of Iloilo City’s largest annual celebrations, is expected to attract thousands of devotees and tourists.
