Thousands of faithful converged on Davao City's Shrine Hills to celebrate one of the country's most beloved religious traditions, marking a day of profound devotion and community spirit.
Successful Security Operation Ensures Peaceful Celebration
An estimated 20,000 devotees gathered at the Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague in Matina, Davao City on Thursday, January 15, 2026, for the annual Feast of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague, commonly known as the Feast of Sto. Niño. The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) reported a highly successful security operation that guaranteed the safety and orderly conduct of the massive event.
According to Police Colonel Mannan Caracas Muarip, the Acting City Director of the DCPO, the religious festivities concluded without any major security incidents or disruptions. He attributed this success to meticulous preparation and coordination.
Proactive Measures and Devotee Cooperation
"The successful and peaceful conclusion of the Feast of Sto. Niño is a clear testament to our proactive security planning, strong coordination, and the cooperation of the faithful," Colonel Muarip stated. Security forces were deployed under the direct supervision of Police Major Genesis P. Oriel, who served as the Ground Commander for the event.
The implemented security strategy included several key components:
- Strict access control at all entry and exit points.
- Thorough inspections of personal belongings brought into the shrine area.
- Continuous monitoring of crowd movement to manage flow and density.
- High police visibility throughout the multi-hour observance.
Muarip also extended his gratitude to the devotees, whose discipline and cooperation were vital in maintaining a calm and orderly atmosphere. He reassured the public that the DCPO remains committed to upholding similar high standards of security for all large-scale religious and cultural gatherings in the city.
A Deep-Rooted Tradition of Veneration
The celebration continues a strong and cherished tradition in Davao City. The previous year's feast also attracted significant crowds, with families and lay faithful gathering for a pontifical Mass and other devotions at the same shrine, undeterred by unfavorable weather.
The Feast of Sto. Niño is an annual Catholic celebration honoring the Holy Child Jesus. It is one of the oldest and most widely observed religious traditions in the Philippines. Held every January, the feast commemorates the gift of the Santo Niño image and serves as a powerful symbol of deep Filipino devotion, thanksgiving, and faith.
This year's peaceful and well-attended event at Shrine Hills stands as a vibrant example of this enduring cultural and spiritual practice, seamlessly supported by community cooperation and professional security stewardship.
