5,000 security personnel deployed for Pasko Fiesta 2024 in Davao City

DAVAO CITY — Approximately 5,000 security and safety personnel have been mobilized to ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the Pasko Fiesta 2024 celebrations in Davao City, which will run from November 28, 2024, to January 1, 2025.

The deployment includes personnel from various security clusters and government agencies, such as the Local Government Unit (LGU), the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), the City Health Office, and the City Social Welfare and Development Office, among others.

In a send-off ceremony held on November 26, 2024, at the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Parade Grounds on San Pedro Street, Acting City Director Colonel Hansel Marantan announced that over 2,000 police officers and 1,500 auxiliary force members will be assigned across the city.

In a message delivered on behalf of Mayor Sebastian Duterte by Angel Sumagaysay, the head of the Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC), the city emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order during the holiday festivities.

“We value the safety of every Dabawenyo and visitor who will celebrate Christmas in our city. Security will be strictly enforced to ensure a peaceful and joyous celebration,” the mayor’s message read.

Marantan highlighted the Davao police force’s preparedness to address potential criminal activities, which historically increase during the holiday season.

“Criminality tends to spike during the Christmas season, but we are ready,” Marantan said, adding that thefts and similar crimes have remained relatively low in recent weeks.

He commended the residents of Davao City for their vigilance and cooperation, which has greatly contributed to crime prevention. “Dabawenyos are peace-loving people. Many of the crimes we solve are thanks to reports from the community,” he said.

The DCPO also noted its recent achievement of eight consecutive days without any incidents of the eight focus crimes, including theft, physical injuries, and other crimes.

“This is commendable. We’ve maintained this with the cooperation of the residents and the dedication of our personnel. Even our record-keeping system was recently inspected by the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM), and we received a perfect score,” Marantan shared.

With the influx of visitors expected during the Pasko Fiesta, ensuring peace and order will be a challenge. Marantan acknowledged the need for a robust security plan to address potential issues such as theft, robbery, and crowd control during major events.

The DCPO assured the public that measures are in place to maintain safety throughout the festivities, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the holiday celebrations without fear.

Pasko Fiesta 2024 is anticipated to attract thousands of people to Davao City, making security a top priority for local authorities.