For yet another year, the streets of Davao City welcomed the New Year with celebration, not chaos. Authorities have officially declared the 2026 festivities as peaceful, orderly, and completely free from the injuries and dangers often associated with holiday revelry.
A Record of Safety Continues Unbroken
Data meticulously gathered by police in coordination with hospitals across Davao City confirmed a remarkable achievement: zero individuals required treatment for firecracker-related injuries. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies reported no incidents involving stray bullets during the holiday period. This successful outcome extends the city's consistent record of safe New Year celebrations, mirroring the incident-free report from 2024.
The Law and Community: Pillars of Prevention
Police officials were quick to point to the foundation of this success: the unwavering enforcement of City Ordinance No. 060-02. This local law, which has been in effect for over twenty years, imposes a total ban on the possession, sale, and use of firecrackers within city limits. It remains a cornerstone policy designed to prevent injuries, fires, and property damage during festive seasons.
However, the strategy went beyond mere prohibition. The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) implemented proactive security measures, including:
- Increased police visibility and sustained patrols in key areas.
- Early and sustained public information campaigns to remind residents of safety rules.
- Strong collaboration with barangay officials and community leaders.
This holistic approach, anchored in the D.A.V.A.O. Framework (Discipline, Action, Virtue, Accountability, and Order) introduced by Acting City Director PCol. Mannan Caracas Muarip, guided all security preparations and operations.
Strict Enforcement Without Exception
Despite the overall peaceful atmosphere, the DCPO confirmed that several individuals were still apprehended for violating the firecracker ban. These cases are being forwarded to the Office of the City Prosecutor, demonstrating the local government's commitment to applying the law without compromise.
"These violators will face appropriate charges," the DCPO stated, emphasizing that public safety is non-negotiable and any breach of the ordinance will be dealt with accordingly.
The police office highlighted that public discipline and a shared sense of accountability among residents were major factors in the celebration's success. This collective effort allowed the focus to remain on welcoming 2026 rather than responding to emergencies.
Looking ahead, the DCPO reaffirmed its commitment to strict enforcement and called for continued public support for safety measures. The goal remains to protect lives and ensure that Davao City's New Year celebrations are joyful and secure for many years to come.
