AS PART of the security measures following the improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao on November 24, the Task Force Davao (TFD) has urged motorists not to park their vehicles in San Pedro Square to ensure the peaceful celebration of Pasko Fiesta 2019.
On Sunday, November 24, a lawless group set off an IED placed under a parked motor while the pick-up truck of Commander Datu Item Ampatuan, head of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) 106th base command, was passing by. The motorcycle used was severely damaged and was burned down. Authorities say the IED was likely detonated using a mobile phone.
With this development in the neighboring province, the TFD is pushing the full implementation of "no parking policy" in Pasko Fiesta venues that will draw a huge crowd.
TFD Commander Colonel Consolito Yecla said that for the past three nights of Pasko Fiesta celebration, they noticed several vehicles, especially motorcycles that were parked in San Pedro Square.
He then coordinated with the Davao City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) for the implementation of the policy in accordance with the concept of a Maximum Security Zone.
"As a courtesy to others, motorists should never park their vehicles in crowded areas," Yecla said.
He said the Davao City Council has already approved Resolution 036-19 on August 6, declaring San Pedro Square as Maximum Security Zone.
In the resolution, parking of motorcycle is prohibited during big events such as Kadayawan, Araw ng Davao, and other big events.
He also recommended the increase of penalty for violators from P500 to P2,000 to discourage motorists from illegally parking their vehicles in crowded areas.
The TFD has been constantly reminding the public to exercise a culture of security in all their dealings especially with the ongoing celebration of Pasko Fiesta.
"At this point in time, the culture of security should have been institutionalized by DavaoeƱos. Everyone should volunteer themselves for inspection; report suspicious persons; remind each other on no backpack policy, no jacket policy, and no non-transparent water container policy among others; and participate in the security system of the City," he said.