Thousands of Muslims in Davao City gathered for a congregational prayer on Saturday at Freedom Park along Roxas Avenue to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
Based on a report from the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), an estimated 70,800 faithful converged for the early morning prayer.
DCPO Acting City Director Col. Mannan Muarip, who joined the prayer, expressed solidarity with the Muslim community and reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to inclusivity and interfaith harmony.
“This occasion reminds us that despite our diverse beliefs and traditions, we are united by our shared values of peace, respect, and cooperation,” Muarip said.
Muarip said the DCPO deployed sufficient personnel across the venue to secure one of the city’s largest religious gatherings and maintain safety and order throughout the event.
“Our priority is to ensure that our Muslim brothers and sisters can observe their faith freely, safely, and with dignity,” he added.
He noted that the visible police presence enabled worshippers to perform their prayers solemnly and without disruption, reflecting the agency’s proactive approach to safeguarding major cultural and religious events.
Muarip also emphasized that the celebration strengthened ties across communities.
“Faith has the power to bring people together. Events like this reinforce unity and deepen mutual understanding among all Dabawenyos,” he said.
He reiterated that beyond its law enforcement mandate, the DCPO remains committed to fostering a cohesive and inclusive society where diversity is respected and peace is sustained.
