Additional Police Reinforce Festival Security
BACOLOD - Bacolod City has received an additional 409 police officers from Iloilo City and the Negros Island Region to strengthen security during the 47th MassKara Festival, which runs until October 18, 2026. The reinforcement includes 200 personnel from Police Regional Office 6, 73 from the Revitalized Pulis sa Barangay program, and 136 from the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office. These officers add to the 3,258 personnel previously deployed to help maintain peace and order throughout the celebration.
Personnel Assigned to Key Festival Areas
The additional officers have been assigned to border control, crime prevention, community relations, peacekeeping, and other essential security operations. Deployment areas include the Bacolod City Government Center and the Public Plaza, where festival activities draw crowds of residents and visitors. The expanded police presence aims to support orderly events, strengthen public safety, and help ensure that festivalgoers can enjoy the celebrations with greater confidence.
Promoting a Safe and Enjoyable MassKara
Police personnel have been instructed to remain alert, approachable, and professional while carrying out their duties. The additional deployment highlights the importance of coordination and preparedness during large public celebrations, when crowd management and timely emergency response are essential. With more officers supporting security operations, Bacolod continues its efforts to provide a safer environment for residents, tourists, performers, and businesses participating in MassKara Festival 2026 under the theme “Share the Smile. Celebrate Gugma.”
