The public is reminded to observe and submit for maximum inspection during Kadayawan sa Davao as Task Force Davao (TFD) and the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) will strictly implement maximum security at San Pedro Square, which was recently declared as “maximum security zone” area.
The security forces will intensify security in San Pedro Square which covers major city landmarks City Hall, San Pedro cathedral, Sangguniang Panlungsod, Rizal Park and DCPO; where huge numbers of spectators are expected to crowd for Kadayawan sa Davao’s main events that include Tambayayong Kadayawan, Indak- Indak sa Kadayawan, Pamulak Kadayawan, and Pitik Kadayawan.
Colonel Consolito Yecla, TF Davao Commander told media in I-Speak Media Forum that they will be implementing the “no jacket”, “no backpack”, and “no water containers” policies in the said area.
“For the first time Davao City will be under maximum security during Kadayawan. When it comes to water containers, it must be transparent and has no labels covering the container,” he said.
The TFD head said garbage bins in the area must be transparent also to easily identify if there are elements planted like explosives.
He also said as part of the maximum security measure in the area, they are regulating the use of drones and only those authorized by the Public Safety Security Command Center (PSCCC) will be allowed to fly during the events.
“This maximum security zone should not be viewed as curtailment of rights of everyone but to be viewed as an effort to provide Davaoenos and visitors a safe place to enjoy,” Yecla said.
DCPO director Police Senior Superintendent Alexander Tagum said police forces will be deployed in the entry points of the maximum security zone.
“Napakarami ang aming i-deploy sa entry points. Meron pong designated entry point ang area with designated security forces composed of TF Davao, DCPO and other enforcement agency,” he said.
Tagum also reminded the public to observe the policy issued by the Kadayawan Execom that includes avoid using laser light, no bomb jokes, no firearms, not bringing of sharp objects, and littering during the events.
“Bawal din magsuot ng sombrero, sunglasses at pagdadala ng bottled mineral water na may label. Dapat visible ang tubig. Iwasan magdala ng private vehicles para maiwasan ang problema sa trapiko,” he said.
He also reiterated the policies against bringing of backpack and wearing of jacket during the event.
The “no jacket” policy is in line with TF Davao’s Culture of Security program that has been implemented April this year wherein the community is encouraged to volunteer themselves for inspections; report suspicious persons; remind each other of the anti-terrorism policies of the city; and participate in the community defense systems.
