The send-off for 1,984 of the 2,495 security forces for the MassKara Festival 2025 was held at the Bacolod City Police Office on Tuesday, September 30.
The 19-day festival kicks off Wednesday afternoon, October 1, with a dual-venue grand opening featuring popular bands.
The Silent Sanctuary and Elias J TV Band will perform at the Bacolod Government Center grounds, while the crowd-favorite Repakol Band will take the stage at the Bacolod Public Plaza.
The opening festivities, led by city officials, will commence at 5 p.m.
“We are all set for the MassKara,” Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya said.
The mayor invited the public to join and enjoy the dual-venue grand opening.
The initial 1,984 deployed personnel consist of 1,320 from the Philippine National Police, other agencies – 64, force multipliers – 250, rescue groups and the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office – 80, and the Bacolod Traffic and Transport Management Department – 270.
A second batch of 511 security personnel is scheduled for deployment on October 16, composed of 300 personnel from the Police Regional Office 6 and 211 from the newly-activated Police Regional Office Negros Island Region.
PCol. Joeresty Coronica, Bacolod Police Director, said the security goal is to ensure zero major crimes for a successful festival.
There will be no signal jamming of cellular phone connections and for the first time no gun ban, Coronica said.
The police had recommended a gunban but Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya said he would consult with the members of the city’s legislative branch before a final decision is made.
Most of them are not keen on having a gun ban since other festivals do not do not impose it, he said.
The authority to request the PNP headquarters to grant a gun ban lies with the mayor.
To strengthen the overall security framework, specialized units — including the Explosives and Ordnance Division, Drone Operators, K9 teams, and medical support groups—will be mobilized, a police statement said.
A total of 651 vehicles and equipment will be utilized throughout the deployment.
Coronica added that police will set up checkpoints at borders to beef up security and reminded the public to report any suspicious-looking people by dialing 911.
He also stressed that prior coordination is required for the use of drones during the festival.
“We will prove once again that Bacolod city can host not only the most festive and colorful celebration but also the safest,” Coronica said.
The police will ensure a peaceful, orderly, and enjoyable MassKara, he said.*