THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) reported a peaceful conclusion to the annual “Pahalipay sa Taal” gift-giving event organized by the Duterte family, with no untoward incidents.
DCPO spokesperson Captain Hazel Tuazon announced on Thursday, December 26, 2024, that this year’s event at the Duterte ancestral home in Central Park Subdivision, Bangkal, Davao City, drew over 50,000 attendees, surpassing last year’s 40,000 participants.
To ensure safety, the Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) deployed 3,248 personnel, including force multipliers, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Special Weapons and Tactics (Swat), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), and police auxiliaries. Additionally, 224 police personnel were assigned to monitor security during the event.
The “Pahalipay sa Taal” is a longstanding tradition of the Duterte family, distributing grocery packs, packed lunches, gift certificates, and cash to Dabawenyos and attendees from neighboring cities.
Vice President Sara Duterte was joined by former President Rodrigo Duterte, 1st District Congressman Pulong Duterte, Mayor Baste Duterte, and Rigo and Omar Duterte in hosting the event.
Ahead of the festivities, the 20th City Council approved the temporary closure of specific roads around Central Park Avenue from December 23 to December 24 to accommodate the large crowds. Proposed by Councilor Conrado C. Baluran, chair of the Committee on Transportation and Communications, the closure affected two rightmost lanes of Central Park Avenue and nearby streets, ensuring smooth traffic flow for attendees. DEF
