Philippines: Authorities to increase security at MassKara Festival in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental Province, Oct. 22-23

Event

Authorities are bolstering security in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental Province, through Oct. 23 for the annual MassKara Festival. At least 2,200 security personnel will deploy in the city during the festival's main events Oct. 22-23 which will take place at Bacolod Public Plaza, Bacolod City Government Center, and The Upper East by Megaworld. Other festival sites include Bacolod Baywalk, Lacson Street, La Salle Coliseum, Panaad Park and Stadium, and SMX Convention Center. A dance procession will also occur along Rizal and Araneta streets to the Paglaum Sports Complex. President Ferdinand Marcos is slated to attend one of the main events, though there has been no confirmation as to when he will be in the city; security will likely be extremely tight during his visit.

A gun ban is in effect in Bacolod through Oct. 23. Authorities will also shut down mobile signals near the sites of the festival's main highlights, Oct. 22-23. Security personnel will likely set up checkpoints, patrol public areas, and secure shopping centers, transport hubs, and other vital installations. Police may conduct random checks of vehicles and pedestrians for the duration of the festival. Street closures and significant traffic disruptions are possible at main event sites and surrounding areas. Increased pickpocketing and petty theft are possible in crowded areas.

Advice

Exercise caution around event sites. Plan for localized transport and business disruptions near program locations. Closely guard valuables in crowded areas. Heed all official advisories and remain cooperative if stopped by authorities for security and health checks.