Nearly 19,000 security personnel, including 500 volunteers from the Davao City Police Office Force Multiplier, will deploy for the month-long 2026 Kadayawan festival in Davao City, according to festival organizers and local officials. An estimated 250,000 tourists are expected to participate in the celebrations.
Security Force Deployment Details for the 2026 Kadayawan Festival
The security contingent for the 2026 month-long celebration expands significantly compared to previous years. According to figures from the Davao City Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO), around 14,000 safety personnel were deployed in 2025.
This year, the nearly 19,000 total personnel include 4,279 police officers from the Davao City Police Office (DCPO). Additionally, the PSSO announced that over 700 personnel from the police, army, and other local government agencies will deploy every day throughout the festival.
Did You Know? The 500 volunteers helping secure the 2026 Kadayawan festival come from various community groups—such as the Solid Alliance for Riders Advocacy, Ultra Riders, Guardians Brotherhood Incorporated, and Delta Charlie—and previously served during the Araw ng Dabaw and Duaw Dabaw celebrations.
Role and Organization of the Force Multipliers
Jean Bacus, president of the Davao City Police Office Force Multiplier (DCPOFM), stated in an interview that the volunteers want to support the city’s “culture of security” during the festivities. Bacus noted that members participate whenever they are free, sometimes at the point of being absent in their work.
“It should not only be the police to work with security, but all of us are included,” Bacus said. She added that while volunteers receive no payment, they are provided with meals during their service. According to Bacus, the volunteers will be scattered around the city.
Official Directives and Leadership Instructions
During the official send-off ceremony, DCPO Director PCol Peter B. Madria addressed the security contingents. He reminded personnel that their presence offers direct assurance to the public.
“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,” PCol Madria said. Meanwhile, PSSO head Ret. PLICoL Angel B. Sumagaysay confirmed the daily deployment schedule for the joint police, army, and local government agency teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many security personnel will be deployed for the 2026 Kadayawan festival?
Almost 19,000 safety personnel will be deployed, an increase from the around 14,000 personnel deployed in 2025.
Who are the force multiplier volunteers participating in the security operations?
Five hundred volunteers from the Davao City Police Office Force Multiplier (DCPOFM) are participating. They belong to groups such as the Solid Alliance for Riders Advocacy (SARA) Club, Ultra Riders, Guardians Brotherhood Incorporated (GBI), and Delta Charlie.
Do the volunteers receive compensation for their service?
No, the volunteers do not receive any payment, but they are provided with meals during their service.
How will community-backed security groups impact your experience of large-scale city festivals?
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