BACOLOD CITY: The Philippine National Police in Negros Occidental will enforce a gun ban in the duration of the 28th Panaad sa Negros Festival next week.
In an advisory, the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) announced that the gun ban will start at 12:01 a.m. of Monday, April 15, and will end at 11:59 p.m. of Sunday, April 21.
All Permit to Carry Firearms Outside of Residence (PTCFOR) issued to licensed gun holders will be suspended during the ban period, Nocppo said.
More than 500 police officers have been detailed to secure the main festival venue, the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan here.
Cpt. Abegail Donasco, Nocppo spokesman, said infographics will be posted throughout the festival areas to provide clear instructions and guidelines to the attendees.
Additionally, an inter-agency coordination team will ensure smooth communication and collaboration between various law enforcement and emergency responders during the duration of the festival.
The Nocppo spokesman also said that the public's cooperation is important to ensure a smooth and incident-free celebration.
"We expect them (public) to fulfill their responsibilities at Panaad, and the police will be there 24/7. We hope they cooperate, ensuring they do not cause any disturbances throughout the festival," said Donasco, who added that the festival's theme this year is "Living the Promise."
Panaad is the Hiligaynon word for vow or promise.
"Our theme this year will show that Panaad Sa Negros Festival continues to significantly impact the lives of our fellow Negrenses, whether in arts, fashion, performances, and many more avenues showcasing the best of Negros Occidental aptly known as the 'Land of Sweet Surprises'," Cheryl Decena, provincial tourism officer, said.
The Panaad Festival's main feature is the showcase of the themed pavilions of the local government units designed as replicas of their own municipal or city hall or the famous product they are known for.
Pre-festival events kicked off on Friday, April 12, with the Lin-ay sang Negros Press Presentation and Talent Competition, followed by a costume competition today, April 14.
The festival's grand opening on Monday, April 15, will begin with morning exhibitions and a dance competition, and will culminate in a concert hosted by the governor, accompanied by a fireworks display.
Other notable festival events include the Governor's Night on April 18 and the Lin-ay sang Negros pageant night on April 19.
Sen. Imee Marcos is expected to attend the opening ceremony on April 15.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Sen. JV Ejercito were also invited.
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