THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) has finalized its security preparations for the upcoming Kadayawan Festival 2025, with acting chief Colonel Mannan Muarip urging both police personnel and the public to be vigilant and cooperative.
In an interview on Wednesday during the send-off ceremony for festival security forces, Muarip stressed the importance of discipline among his ranks.
“Our expectation is that the personnel, particularly from the DCPO, should be dedicated to their tasks, whether it’s a small task or at the personnel screening area or control points. They should be strict with whatever task has been given to them, starting today until Aug. 31,” he said.
Enhanced security deployment
Muarip confirmed that the DCPO has made adjustments to its security plan, including increasing the number of deployed personnel in areas of high foot traffic.
“We have made some changes regarding the deployment of our people. We added to what we usually do, and you will see that during the Kadayawan festivities from tomorrow until August 31,” he stated.
He also had a message for the public, encouraging them to be active participants in maintaining security.
“For our people in Davao City and our visitors coming from different places, hopefully, they should follow the specific rules and regulations to be implemented in the respective venues and activity areas so that we will have no problems,” he said.
He added that even with the security presence, people should remain observant of their surroundings and immediately report any suspicious activity to the police.
Baggage and pickpocketing advisories
In an effort to streamline security checks and ensure public safety, Muarip strongly discouraged festival-goers from bringing bags to activity venues.
“The city is open to tourists, but there are certain areas where bringing bags and other things is not allowed, which would make it difficult for our screening personnel,” Muarip explained.
He noted that at places like the night market, bags are often required to be left at a counter.
To prevent this inconvenience, he advised people to leave their bags at home or in their hotels.
He suggested that if people must bring a bag, it should be a clear one, similar to those used during the bar exams, to expedite the screening process.
“We have baggage counter areas, but with the high influx of people, we can’t avoid congestion, so we encourage them to just bring clear bags if possible, so our screening personnel don’t have a hard time,” he added.
Finally, the DCPO chief issued a warning against pickpocketing. “People should be personally conscious of their respective properties because we can’t avoid crimes from happening. A criminal thief will always be a thief, but if they don’t see an opportunity, they will be hesitant, especially if the supposed victim is vigilant,” he said, reminding the public that their personal vigilance is their best defense.
Photo by Bing Gonzales
