BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has once again turned down a proposal for mobile signal jamming during the upcoming Dinagyang Festival 2025.
The request, brought forward by Police Colonel Kim Legada of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), aimed to strengthen safety measures during the festival’s highlights.
However, Treñas stressed the need for uninterrupted mobile communication, which he deemed critical for personal, business, and emergency needs.
Treñas earlier pointed to prior instances of signal jamming, such as during the Dinagyang Festival in January 2023, which caused significant disruptions not only in Iloilo City but also in nearby towns.
These disruptions sparked widespread complaints, particularly from residents unable to access live streaming of festival events.
The Iloilo City Council echoed the mayor’s stance, rejecting a similar request from the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6).
Councilor Sedfrey Cabaluna, in a committee report, outlined the adverse effects of a signal shutdown on the local economy, emergency services, and public safety.
To address security concerns, Treñas assured heightened safety measures, including routine inspections and frisking of attendees.
The mayor has expressed confidence in the capabilities of the police and military to ensure a secure and festive atmosphere without resorting to signal jamming./PN
