SILVER MassKara Festival Organization, Inc. and the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) laid down on Thursday the traffic rerouting and safety plans to be implemented for the 19-day 32nd MassKara festival.
BCPO Director Police Senior Superintendent Dela Paz said there is possibility that they will enforce a gun ban during the festival; but said he is still waiting for the approval of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director General Nicanor Bartoleme.
The cancellation of the permit to carry firearms outside of residence from October 1 to 20, was also endorsed by the mayor and members of the City Council, de la Paz said.
He added that Regional Director Chief Superintendent Cipriano Querol endorsed the request for a gun ban to the office of the chief PNP.
For security measures, de la Paz said, “We tap the different police units and Armed Forces of the Philippines to assist us and to secure the different sea ports and airports in the region (Western Visayas) and even the adjacent Region 7 (Central Visayas) that will serve as entry points of those who would like to visit and enjoy the MassKara festivity.
“Our goal is zero casualty and we can do this with the support of the stakeholders and the general public,” he said.
More than 500 PNP personnel will be put on standby to maximize deployment in anticipation of the more than 100,000 people who will be coming to the city.
“I communicated with the operation’s officer in the region and there is now a directive from General Querol. There will be 100 PNP personnel
who will be coming from the 6th RPSB (Regional Public Safety Battalion). About 200 who are undergoing training might be utilized to augment the present BCPO police force,” he added.
Meanwhile, Traffic Management Unit Police Chief Inspector Luisito Acebuche said the traffic rerouting for southbound vehicles will cover the areas including San Sebastian along Araneta, Burgos Street and Reclamation Area.
“We will have a busy Burgos Street and Reclamation Area and also our San Sebastian Street going to Bata–Libertad market,” he said.
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