Abuyog Police Step Up Security as Town Fiesta Nears

Posted on August 18, 2026 at 7:55 am

Abuyog, Leyte — Police are preparing for an expected increase in people in Abuyog as the town celebrates the feast of St. Francis Xavier on August 29.

P/Maj. Luis B. Hatton, Chief of Police of the Abuyog Municipal Police Station, said they have requested additional personnel from the Philippine National Police to help the local station during the fiesta.

The police are also coordinating with the Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection and mobile forces. Hatton said they are still waiting for the final list of personnel who will be sent to Abuyog.

Abuyog has 63 barangays and a population of 61,854, according to the 2024 Census of Population of the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Police will conduct 24-hour mobile patrols and set up checkpoints during the fiesta, especially in areas where large crowds are expected.

Barangay force multipliers and local organizations will also help the police. Hatton said CCTV cameras in the barangays and town proper will be used to monitor areas with heavy activity.

The police have also requested assistance from an Explosive Ordnance Disposal and K9 team during the fiesta activities.

Hatton said the preparations are similar to what the police do every year for the town’s major celebrations.

The fiesta comes as Abuyog holds several activities under Linggo ng Abuyog, including the 2nd Abuyog Marching Band Competition on August 23 and the Buyogan Festival on August 27.

These events are expected to bring more people into town ahead of the August 29 feast.

Mayor Lemuel Gin K. Traya has directed the police and other agencies to help maintain peace and order throughout the celebration.

Hatton also asked residents and visitors to stay alert and report anything suspicious to the police.

With several activities lined up, police said they will remain visible around the town to help keep the celebration orderly and safe.

Photo by: Rolly Magallanes