WITH Holy Week fast approaching, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has reported an increase in passenger volume at the Davao International Airport (DIA).
According to Engr. Rex Obscena, CAAP Area Manager, the rise in travelers is a common trend during major holidays, and they are already seeing the effects. “We expect the number of passengers to continue rising in the coming days, especially as we approach Maundy Thursday and Good Friday,” he said during an interview on Davao City Disaster Radio (DCDR) on April 10, 2025.
Despite the growing crowd, Obscena assured that airport operations remain normal. To maintain order and safety, CAAP has requested additional security personnel. Alongside police officers, members of the Civil Security Unit (CSU) and Task Force Davao (TFD) have also been deployed.
Security efforts are not limited to the airport. Across Davao City, authorities are intensifying their presence in preparation for the anticipated influx of people. The Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) has increased its personnel deployment by 500 to 700, raising the total force to more than 3,000.
PSSO Chief Angel Sumagaysay said that their security efforts extend beyond public events and also cover tourist hotspots, including beaches and inland resorts. He emphasized that ensuring safety throughout the city is a top priority during the Holy Week period.
To support surveillance and rapid response, 200 CCTV cameras across terminals are fully operational. Officials hope that these measures will help deter crime and keep peace during the religious observance.
Security will also be reinforced at major churches and remote areas such as Calinan and Marilog, following a request from Archbishop Romulo Valles.
Among the key Holy Week activities in Davao are the Mass and Adoration on April 17, the Stations of the Cross on April 18, the Easter Vigil on April 19, and Easter Sunday Masses on April 20.
Holy Week is a significant religious observance for Catholics in the Philippines, beginning on Palm Sunday and concluding on Easter Sunday. RGP