Eleven of Huila's 37 municipalities have decreed dry laws and restrictions to maintain order during Holy Week 2026. Seven others chose not to impose measures after consultations with communities and merchants. Police and army bolster security ahead of thousands of visitors.
Several Huila mayors issued decrees restricting alcohol sales and consumption during Holy Week, along with bans on parking along procession routes, public spectacles and sound equipment use. These measures aim to ensure safety and reflection in active Catholic communities.
Municipalities with restrictions include Elías, El Agrado, Garzón, Gigante, Isnos, Pitalito, Rivera, Teruel, La Plata, Oporapa and Timaná, with varied schedules from April 1 to 6. For instance, Pitalito's mayor Yider Luna Joven banned intoxicating beverages from April 2 to 3 and regulated heavy vehicle transit under Decree 118. In Gigante, the late mayor Josué Manrique also prohibited weapons carrying.
Neiva, Aipe, Hobo, La Argentina, Paicol, Tarqui and Campoalegre will not enforce dry laws. Neiva's administration referenced a Council of State ruling limiting municipal authority on religious grounds, emphasizing freedom of worship.
Huila Police deployed 1,200 officers under the “Holy Week Safe” plan, anticipating 360,000 people and 90,000 vehicles. “The purpose is clear: for Huilans and tourists to live this season in peace,” said Colonel Javier Alberto Duarte Reyes. The army added 600 soldiers on key roads.
