DAVAO City’s security cluster, spearheaded by the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), is now preparing the security template that will be implemented on the feast day of the Santo Niño at the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague in Matina on Sunday, January 15.
Sunday’s observance of the feast marks its return after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
In anticipation of a great number of participants, stringent security measures will be put in place in churches observing the day, especially at the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague.
Based on the fiesta’s usual protocol, security personnel will be deployed to the shrine in Matina, with more police forces patrolling the surrounding area, said DCPO Spokesperson PMaj. Catherine Dela Rey during the Madayaw Davao program aired over the Davao City Disaster Radio on Tuesday.
“Everytime naay piyesta sa Santo Niño, definitely naa tay mga area security na pagkahimuon dinha og naa pud tay pagkahimuon na patrolling (Every Santo Niño festival, we definitely have area security there and we also do patrols),” Dela Rey said.
She added that since the area is a fenced space, providing security coverage will be relatively easier.
The ready cooperation of religious service people in the area will also prove to be helpful in ensuring a peaceful celebration.
Since Sunday’s masses are expected to draw in unusually large crowds, Dela Rey reminded the people that the usual prohibitions will be in full effect that day.
This means pointed objects, backpacks, non-transparent water containers and other prohibited items are not allowed in the area.
She also reminded participants to stay alert and keep in mind the city’s culture of security.
“Definitely, pag sa entrance dinha naa tay checking sa mga bags nato. As usual sa atong culture of security, pag ingona ana gadaghan ang mga tao, kabalo na atong mga citizens diri sa Davao na dili pwede magdala og backpack og dili clear na mga water bottle (Definitely, at the entrance, we will be checking people’s bags. As usual to our culture of security, our citizens already know that they are not allowed to bring backs and non-transparent water bottles),” Dela Rey said. DAVAO CIO