Davao City Police Office (DCPO) acting Director Col. Mannan Muarip assured the public on Monday that heightened security measures are in place ahead of the nine-day Simbang Gabi, set to begin on December 16.
Muarip said DCPO has classified Simbang Gabi as a priority event, ensuring increased police presence, proactive deployment, and close coordination with partner agencies.
DCPO spokesperson Capt. Hazel Tuazon earlier announced that some 5,000 personnel will be deployed to secure 43 churches holding Simbang Gabi from December 16 to 25.
In coordination with Task Force Davao (TF Davao), the Bureau of Fire Protection-Davao (BFP-Davao), the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), and barangay officials, the DCPO has mobilized personnel and resources to all churches and key convergence points to ensure smooth worship activities, traffic management, and prevention of untoward incidents.
Muarip emphasized that security operations are guided by the D.A.V.A.O. Framework—Discipline, Action, Virtue, Accountability, and Order, which emphasizes professional readiness, proactive policing, respect for faith and community, coordinated action among stakeholders, and effective crowd and traffic management.
Muarip also underscored the crucial role of barangay officials in maintaining peace, guiding minors and young adults, and supporting law enforcement.
He urged the public to cooperate with authorities, exercise discipline, and remain vigilant throughout the celebration.
“Our security plan prioritizes police visibility, preventive patrols, crowd management, and immediate response readiness, while respecting the sanctity of the religious observance. Together with our partner agencies, barangay leaders, and the community, we are committed to a peaceful, safe, and meaningful Simbang Gabi for all Dabawenyos,” he said.
