Massive Security Deployment for 89th Araw ng Dabaw Celebration
The Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) has announced a comprehensive security plan for the upcoming 89th Araw ng Dabaw, with 8,500 integrated safety and security personnel set to be deployed throughout the month-long festivities. This significant force aims to ensure a smooth and secure celebration for all attendees, marking a notable increase from previous years' deployments.
Coordinated Security Efforts
Claire Antonette Pace of the PSSO confirmed on Thursday, February 20, 2026, that the personnel will include members from multiple agencies, such as the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO), City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), and Task Force Davao (TFD). "We are fully prepared and ready to secure all attendees throughout the month-long celebration of Araw ng Dabaw," Pace stated during a press conference at Rogen Inn.
Safety and security teams have already conducted a series of preparatory meetings, which also cover the upcoming Ironman competition. According to Pace, the latest briefing from the Regional Intelligence Committee indicates no identified threats to Davao City, providing reassurance to organizers and participants alike. Dedicated personnel will monitor accredited events and venues continuously during the celebration.
Historical Context and Police Deployment
For context, last year's month-long festivities saw 8,369 personnel deployed, with an additional 4,000 assigned specifically for the parade. This year's deployment of 8,500 represents a strategic enhancement to address potential security needs.
Meanwhile, the DCPO has confirmed it will deploy 4,169 officers during the celebration. Police Capt. Hazel Caballero Tuazon, spokesperson for the DCPO, explained that these personnel will be stationed along major thoroughfares and at key locations where large crowds are anticipated. The DCPO will coordinate closely with other safety and security agencies to maintain peace and order, with the goal of achieving a zero-incident record.
Event Schedule and Highlights
The Araw ng Dabaw celebration officially begins with Kanta ug Sayaw Dabawenyo on February 28, followed by the Misa Pasasalamat at San Pedro Square and Pasiugdang Pagsaulog at City Hall on March 1. Major events throughout the month include:
- Araw ng Dabaw Trade Fair and Bazaar at Magsaysay Park from March 1 to 31
- "100 Years of City Hall: Projection Mapping" at City Hall from March 1 to 31
- Kundiman at Harana sa Araw ng Dabaw on March 7, 8, 20, 21, and 22
- Mutya ng Dabaw 2026 preliminaries at SM City Davao Annex on March 8
- Salida Dabawenyo at the Cinematheque from March 10 to 13
- Conferment of Datu Bago on March 18
- Mutya ng Dabaw Grand Coronation on March 20
The month-long celebration will conclude with Parada Dabawenyo and Konsierto Dabawenyo on March 28, bringing the festivities to a close with grand fanfare and community spirit.
