GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Authorities in Sarangani Province have finalized comprehensive safety and security protocols for the upcoming SarBay Festival 2026, set for May 22, despite the event’s transition to a simplified, one-day format.

Provincial officials, in coordination with law enforcement and security agencies, completed the planning on April 30, ensuring that public safety measures remain at full operational levels. The festival, now branded as “SarBay Reimagined 2026,” shifts its focus toward environmental advocacy rather than large-scale entertainment.

Festival Director Joana Grace Lapore said that while the celebration has been streamlined, security preparations will not be scaled down. “Full deployment will still be implemented to ensure safety and proper management of participants,” she noted.

Personnel from the police, military, and coast guard are set to oversee traffic flow, crowd control, and emergency response operations. These measures will support various activities lined up for the event, including coastal cleanups and forest rehabilitation efforts.

A key highlight of this year’s festival is the “I Love Clean SarBay” campaign, which underscores a broader shift toward purpose-driven initiatives centered on environmental protection and sustainability.

Governor Rogelio Pacquiao emphasized that safeguarding the public remains the provincial government’s top priority. He added that even with a reduced program, authorities are committed to maintaining strict safety standards to ensure a secure and meaningful celebration.

The SarBay Festival, traditionally known for drawing large crowds, is expected to take on a more community-oriented and advocacy-driven approach this year, aligning environmental action with public engagement while keeping security at the forefront.