The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) will deploy some 5,000 personnel to secure 43 churches holding Simbang Gabi from December 16 to 25.
DCPO spokesperson Capt. Hazel Tuazon said on Monday all churches will implement a strict “one-entrance, one-exit” policy to help police monitor the movement of individuals entering the premises.
“Naa tay one entrance and one exit policy sa tanan na mga simbahan nga gibantayan aron ma-monitor ang mga individuals na musulod sa tanang simbahan,” Tuazon said during the Davao Peace and Security Press Corps media briefing.
Tuazon also reminded churchgoers to follow security protocols, emphasizing Davao City’s long-standing “culture of security.” Backpacks, bladed weapons, and laser lights are strictly prohibited inside churches.
“Dili gyud kalimtan na part sa atong culture of security diri sa Davao nga bawal magdala ug backpacks sulod sa mga simbahan as well as bladed weapons, laser lights, and kung naay inspection na pagabuhaton pasulod sa simbahan ang jacket ug kalo tangtangon during sa inspection ug dili na anto lalison ang mga police personnel tungod kay naam o mamonitor usahay nga mulalis pa. Ang atoa dinha kay mutuman lang ug dili na nato lalison ang mga police personnel na naghatag ug seguridad sa tanang simbahan,” she said.
Tuazon urged the public to cooperate, noting that police are monitoring numerous activities throughout December.
“Kooperasyon lang gikan sa tanan kay daghan ta ug activity na ginabantayan karong bulan sa December ug ang pagtuman lamang ang among ginapangayo sa tanang Dabawenyos,” she said.
Meanwhile, acting DCPO director Col. Mannan Muarip gathered DCPO staff, station commanders, and unit heads for a staff conference at DCPO’s Kapanalig Hall to address current issues in the city and finalize preparations for upcoming police activities.
Muarip stressed the need for proactive planning, close coordination among units, and transparency in handling challenges encountered by the organization.
He said the DCPO remains committed to operational readiness, discipline, and maintaining public trust as it continues to safeguard peace and order in Davao City.
