IN RESPONSE to a recent uptick in motorcycle theft and street crimes, Davao City Police Office (DCPO) director Col Peter B. Madria called for an emergency command conference Monday morning to overhaul the city’s anti-criminality strategy.
The 8 a.m. briefing specifically targeted station commanders from districts identified as “hotspots” for motornapping and other recurring criminal activities.
The meeting served as a directive for a more aggressive, intelligence-led approach to urban policing.
Madria directed increased frequency of both foot and mobile patrols in high-risk areas, strengthened checkpoints and border control measures to intercept stolen vehicles and contraband, and intelligence-driven strikes against syndicates involved in illegal drugs, robbery, and theft.
“A strong police presence on the streets remains our most effective deterrent,” Madria told the gathered commanders. “We must ensure operational excellence across every station.”
Madria also conducted an assessment of the DCPO’s immediate response capability.
Commanders were ordered to audit their units to ensure that personnel, mobility assets, and communication equipment are in a constant state of “mission-readiness.”
The directive also highlighted the need for quick reaction teams to minimize response times during active incidents, emphasizing that discipline and preparation are non-negotiable.
Recognizing that the police cannot work in a vacuum, Madria instructed stations to deepen their ties with community stakeholders.
This includes regular coordination with barangay officials and force multipliers, collaboration with business establishments and transport groups for better information gathering, and continuous analysis of crime patterns to allow for the dynamic deployment of resources.
As the city prepares for upcoming public gatherings and celebrations, the DCPO is already moving into a “heightened security” posture.
Madria underscored the importance of advanced crowd management and traffic control to ensure public safety during high-profile events.
“Crime prevention is a shared responsibility,” Madria concluded. “Every station must take full ownership of the peace and order in its respective area. We will be relentless in protecting this community.”
