Davao City to Deploy 19,000 Security Personnel for Month-Long Kadayawan Festival

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 4 August 2026) – Davao City is set to deploy a formidable security force of nearly 19,000 personnel for the month-long celebration of the 2026 Kadayawan Festival. This significant deployment includes approximately 500 volunteers from the Davao City Police Office Force Multiplier (DCPOFM). Jean Bacus, president of DCPOFM, told MindaNews in an interview on Monday that their participation is driven by a desire to contribute to the city’s 'culture of security' during the festival, which anticipates an estimated 250,000 tourists. "It should not only be the police to work with security, but all of us are included," Bacus said, highlighting their commitment to assist whenever they are available, sometimes even at the expense of their own work commitments. While the volunteers do not receive payment, they are provided with meals during their service. The volunteer force is composed of Davaeños from various backgrounds. Bacus herself is from the Solid Alliance for Riders Advocacy (SARA) Club. Other members represent groups such as Ultra Riders, Guardians Brotherhood Incorporated (GBI), and Delta Charlie. She noted that her group, SARA, is apolitical but may have been inspired by the Vice President, given their shared Davaeño roots. The volunteers have previously served during the city's Araw ng Dabaw and Duaw Dabaw events. In previous reports, Davao City Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) head Ret. PLICoL Angel B. Sumagaysay stated that over 700 personnel would be deployed daily throughout the Kadayawan festival. This daily contingent comprises personnel from the police, army, and other local government agencies. Regarding their deployment, Bacus mentioned that the volunteers would be stationed throughout the city. During the send-off ceremony, DCPO Director PCol Peter B. Madria reminded the members of the contingents about their vital role. "Always remember that [their] presence provides assurance to the people [they] serve," he said. He further urged them to "Perform your duties with integrity, courtesy, and professionalism. Remain alert, exercise sound judgment, and respond promptly to every situation while respecting the rights and dignity of every individual." This year, out of the more than 19,000 safety personnel, 4,279 will be policemen from DCPO. In 2025, approximately 14,000 safety personnel were deployed for the festival. (Razl EJ Teman/MindaNews)