Around 19,000 integrated security and safety personnel have been deployed across Davao City to secure the 2026 Kadayawan Festival, according to local officials. The month-long cultural celebration, which features 26 official events and targets roughly 250,000 tourist arrivals, launched its security preparations during a send-off ceremony on Monday, August 3, at the Davao City Police Office Parade Grounds.
Security Deployment and Leadership for the 2026 Festival
The security force brings together personnel from the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Coast Guard, emergency responders, force multipliers, and partner agencies. Acting City Police Director Police Colonel Peter Bauzon Madria and Public Safety and Security Office Chief Angel B. Sumagaysay led the August 3 launch at the Davao City Police Office Parade Grounds. Throughout the month-long celebration, these integrated units will cover festival venues and major thoroughfares.
During the festival run, organizers plan to deploy around 700 personnel daily in strategic areas. Sumagaysay delivered a message on behalf of Davao City Mayor Sebastian Duterte during the deployment ceremony, urging workers to maintain professional standards. “As you fulfill your respective duties and responsibilities, always exercise maximum tolerance and uphold the vital principles of integrity, vigilance, compassion and the highest form of professionalism,” the mayor’s message stated.
Did You Know? The city government has allocated ₱68 million to fund the 2026 Kadayawan Festival, which highlights the traditions of 11 ethnolinguistic tribes.
Operational Goals and Expected Tourist Turnout
City officials have stated that the primary objective of the massive deployment is to maintain a zero-incident celebration. This safety target relies on close coordination among all participating security and emergency response agencies. Madria emphasized the readiness of law enforcement to protect the public throughout the festivities. “Our goal is to ensure absolute safety to protect our people in any circumstances. We will work together to ensure that the Kadayawan Festival will be successful, marked with peace and public confidence,” Madria said.
The festival operates under the theme “We Are One, KadayaONE!” alongside the tagline “KadayaONE All Over the City: Best Kadayawan Experience.” City organizers are aiming for around 250,000 tourist arrivals. Visitors can attend 26 official events designed to highlight the region’s agricultural abundance and rich cultural heritage. Major scheduled gatherings include the Misa Pasasalamat, Subang Sinugdanan ug Panagtagbo, Hiyas sa Kadayawan, and the August 16 grand finale featuring the Pamulak ug Indak-Indak sa Kadayawan Parade and the Indak-Indak Grand Showdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many security personnel are deployed for the 2026 Kadayawan Festival?
Around 19,000 integrated security and safety personnel have been deployed across festival venues and major thoroughfares.
What agencies make up the security force?
The force includes personnel from the Philippine National Police, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Coast Guard, emergency responders, force multipliers, and other partner agencies.
What is the budget and theme for this year’s event?
The city government has allocated ₱68 million for the festival. The event carries the theme “We Are One, KadayaONE!” and features 26 official events.
How will the daily deployment be managed across the month-long celebration in Davao City?
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