Iloilo City Police Police proposes signal-jamming for Dinagyang 2025

To enhance safety and security, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) has proposed implementing phone signal-jamming during the Dinagyang Festival, scheduled for January 24 to 26, 2025.

According to a report by Zen Quilantang-Sasa on Unang Balita, the ICPO has formally communicated its recommendation to the Iloilo City Government and Iloilo City Festivals Incorporated. 

The proposal aims to mitigate potential threats to spectators and visitors through targeted signal-jamming measures.

"Hindi naman ito whole day na mag-signal jam. May certain hours and certain areas lang na ma-jam. So that we can avoid mga incidents of terrorism with the use of cellphones na initiator sa pag-operate ng devices," said ICPO Director Police Colonel Kim Legarda.

(Phone signals won’t be jammed the entire day. There will only be specific hours and designated areas affected to prevent incidents of terrorism, where cell phones might be used to operate devices.)

Despite the ICPO’s intent, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas has expressed reservations about the plan.

“Gusto niya i-avoid ang nangyari na ang iba hindi ma-contact. Not only in Iloilo City pero ang mga neighboring towns affected even up to Guimaras,” said Mayor Trenas’ spokesperson, Joy Fantilaga.

(The mayor wants to avoid situations where people cannot contact each other. This issue could affect not only Iloilo City but also neighboring towns, including Guimaras.)

While the police confirmed the availability of a signal-jamming device, deliberations on whether it will be deployed are still ongoing. 

The local government opted not to implement signal jamming during last year’s festival.

In preparation for the event, the ICPO plans to deploy 2,000 personnel to maintain peace and order.

Every last Sunday of January, the streets of Iloilo City—known as the "City of Love"—come alive with music, vibrant costumes, and thousands of participants celebrating the Dinagyang Festival in honor of the Sto. Niño. — Sherylin Untalan/DVM, GMA Integrated News