THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) reported no incidents of violence or untoward events during the opening of the Misa de Gallo, also known as Simbang Gabi, on Monday, December 16, 2024.
In an interview with SunStar Davao, DCPO spokesperson Captain Hazel Tuazon confirmed that all security agencies in the city recorded zero significant incidents. She noted there were no cases of criminality or insurgency on the first day of the traditional Catholic event.
To ensure public safety, DCPO deployed 1,013 police personnel to monitor 43 major churches in the city. These officers will remain on duty in their respective areas of responsibility (AOR) throughout the nine-day event, from December 16 to 24.
DCPO, in collaboration with Task Force Davao (TFD) and other law enforcement agencies, has implemented a “One Entrance, One Exit Policy” at churches as part of their security measures. This policy is aimed at managing crowd flow and preventing any potential violence, especially outside church premises.
“We will have a one-entrance, one-exit policy at churches, so there may be minor delays upon entering,” Tuazon said.
In 2023, the Police Regional Office-Davao Region (PRO-Davao) recorded approximately 30,000 churchgoers on the opening day of Misa de Gallo. Reflecting on this year’s start, PRO-Davao spokesperson Police Major Catherine Dela Rey highlighted the event’s peaceful outcome and the successful implementation of strict security measures.
“Hapsay ug dili gubot ang atoang Misa De Gallo. In general, generally peaceful gyud sya (Our Misa de Gallo was smooth and peaceful. It was generally peaceful),” Dela Rey said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong culture of security.
The DCPO and its partner agencies remain vigilant as they continue to ensure a safe and orderly environment for churchgoers during this cherished Filipino tradition. DEF