THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) will deploy at least 1,013 police personnel to monitor 43 major churches in the city in light of the upcoming traditional Misa De Gallo or dawn masses.
DCPO spokesperson Captain Hazel Tuazon said in an exclusive interview with SunStar Davao on Thursday, December 12, 2024, that these personnel will be augmented in their respective area of responsibility (AOR) from December 16 to 24.
Tuazon also encouraged all the churchgoers to adhere to the measure to avoid any disputes with security personnel.
“Security teams will be in place two hours before each Mass. Please obey the guidelines to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all… We remind those attending Simbang Gabi to cooperate with our security personnel,” she said during the Davao Peace and Security Press briefing on December 11.
Meanwhile, similar to the previous years, their office will also implement a 'One Entrance One Exit Policy' as one of their security plans to monitor the crowd buildup and avoid violence, especially in the external areas of churches.
“We will have a one-entrance, one-exit policy at churches, so there may be minor delays upon entering,” she said.
DCPO in collaboration with Task Force Davao (TFD) and other law enforcement agencies
will also help security guards in checking the churchgoers’ bags and vehicles.
The police office continues to share safety tips for residents before leaving their homes for the Holiday to avoid theft, robbery, and other common crimes.
“Siyempre ang mga kawatan nangita lang na og chance or opportunity nga wala’y tao sa ilahang balay (Thieves and burlgars are only looking for a chance or opportunity when nobody is home). We always remind the public that when they go to public places or venues, they must not bring prohibited items. Dabawenyos should also cooperate with our security forces,” Tuazon noted. DEF