At least 1,102 personnel from various security forces and force multiplier groups led by the Philippine National Police (PNP) were deployed Saturday to secure the Panaad Sa Negros Festival on April 15 to 21.

Negros Occidental’s “festival of all festivals,” whose name is derived from the Hiligaynon word Panaad, which means vow or promise, is held yearly at Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, this city.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Col. Rainerio de Chavez, officer-in-charge of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO), led the send-off ceremony from the police headquarters’ grandstand.

In his message, Lacson said the role of the PNP is critical in ensuring public safety as the province has set more activities, including band concerts and major competitions, for a larger celebration and anticipates a significant influx of people.

“We are looking at several thousands of Negrenses and tourists attending the festival. As such, we want our festival-goers not only to be safe but to feel safe as well to be able to truly enjoy what we have prepared for them,” he added.

Lt. Col. Joem Malong, NOCPPO deputy director for operations and commander of Panaad 2024 Site Task Group, said that with thorough security preparations, they see not just a successful, but even better staging of the festival this year.

“We have carefully prepared the security plan and already implemented its initial phases,” she added.

The security personnel are assigned to maintain peace and order, manage traffic congestion, control crowds, and provide security at each event.

A gun ban will also be enforced in the entire Negros Occidental from 12:01 a.m of April 15 to 11:59 p.m. of April 21.

During this period, all permits to carry firearms outside of residence will be suspended.

The Panaad Festival’s main feature is the showcase of the themed pavilions of the 32 local government units, including highly-urbanized Bacolod City, designed as replicas of their municipal or city halls or the products they are known for.

Among the major events are the Best of Festival Dances Competition after the grand opening on Monday afternoon, the Panaad Trade Fair and the Lin-ay Sang Negros beauty pageant.

Now on its 28th edition, this year’s Panaad Sa Negros Festival is themed “Living the Promise.” (PNA)