- 7,000 personnel to secure Ironman and Parada Dabawenyo
THE PUBLIC Safety and Security Office (PSSO) has finalized its security plan for Davao City’s upcoming twin events, the Ironman 70.3 and the civic-military parade, announcing the deployment of approximately 7,000 integrated security forces.
Speaking at the Davao Peace and Security press briefing at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Wednesday, March 18, PSSO chief Angel Sumagaysay said the preparations are now at “100%” for both the Ironman triathlon and the 89th Araw ng Dabaw.
“All systems go. We are ready for the implementation of the security and safety plan for Ironman and the ongoing Araw ng Davaw festivities,” Sumagaysay said. “We hope to replicate the success and safety of previous years.”
Ironman and community events
The bulk of the 7,000-strong force will be deployed from March 20 to March 22, 2026, covering the Gwapa Dabawenya, Ironkids, and the Ironman. The security forces will blanket the race routes and high-traffic spectator areas to ensure zero incidents during the international sporting event.
Security forces will also cover the Parada Dabawenyo, where Vice President Sara Duterte is expected to attend.
“There will be a final security and safety coordination meeting next week to refine the area-specific plans, especially since we are expecting a large crowd for the parade,” Sumagaysay said.
When asked if there were specific security measures for the birthday of former President Rodrigo Duterte, which coincides with the parade, Sumagaysay clarified that the PSSO is maintaining a general, comprehensive security posture for the Parada Dabawenyo.
The PSSO chief urged the public to cooperate with security personnel and follow established safety protocols during the week-long celebrations.
