BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City — The Iloilo City Operations Center has been placed on Blue Alert Status in preparation for All Saints’ and All Souls’ days, or what in Western Visayas is traditionally called “Fiesta Minatay”.
Acting Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon issued an executive order to elevate the city government to blue alert status from Oct. 31 to Nov. 3.
This alert level signifies increased preparedness, ensuring that city resources and personnel are ready to respond to potential incidents during the holiday when many residents and visitors are expected to visit cemeteries and participate in observances.
During the Blue Alert Status for Fiesta Minatay, Ganzon directed the vice chairperson, cluster heads, and unit heads of the Iloilo City Operations Center to be on standby and prepared for emergency deployment.
This measure aims to ensure swift response capabilities and coordination among city officials and emergency units throughout the observance period from October 31 to November 3, when high public activity is anticipated.
The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) has activated its disaster management teams to ensure public safety during All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days.
In a press briefing, Darryl Darwyn Thusalidas of the CDRRMC highlighted that with a high number of tourists expected, the council is collaborating with local traffic authorities to maintain smooth traffic flow, particularly around cemeteries and other popular areas.
These efforts are part of a broader initiative to provide a safe and orderly experience for both residents and visitors during the holiday observance.
Ganzon has also directed the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (BDRRMC) to remain on alert to ensure public safety throughout Undas.
His directive mobilizes barangay-level disaster teams to enhance preparedness and provide localized support, reinforcing the city’s efforts to maintain safety and order during the holiday period.
Ganzon has instructed the barangay Emergency Operations Centers to operate 24/7 during Undas to ensure swift dispatch of vital communication and information, enhancing public security and enabling quicker response to any incidents that may arise over the holiday period.
Likewise, Ganzon also advised residents planning to leave their homes for vacation during Undas to secure their properties by ensuring all doors and windows are locked.
He appealed to the public to monitor any unattended candles to prevent fire hazards and to avoid posting their vacation plans on social media, as this could alert potential intruders to their absence./PN
