GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Authorities have intensified security preparations for the week-long Kalilangan Festival 2026, implementing heightened safety measures, traffic rerouting, emergency drills, and restrictions on drone operations to protect the public during the celebrations.

Police Colonel Nicomedes Olaivar Jr., chief of the General Santos City Police Office (GSCPO), said law enforcement units are on full alert as part of a security plan covering major activity areas and expected crowd concentrations.

Over the weekend, the GSCPO conducted a Simulation Exercise (SIMEX) around the festival’s main venues. The drill assessed operational readiness, tested response capabilities, and ensured swift, coordinated implementation of security protocols during emergencies. It also focused on improving coordination among units assigned to festival security.

In a separate advisory, the city government announced a strict “no permit, no flying” policy for drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles. Operators must secure prior clearance from the Incident Management Team (IMT) before flying within designated event areas. Authorities said the measure is intended to prevent security risks amid large crowds.

Kalilangan Festival 2026 runs from 23 to 27 February 2026 and is expected to draw thousands of residents and visitors. The annual celebration commemorates the historic landing of the city’s founder, Paulino Santos, and the first settlers from Luzon on the shores of Sarangani Bay on 27 February 1939.

City officials said the security measures will remain in place throughout the festivities to ensure an orderly and safe celebration of one of General Santos City’s major cultural events.