The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) has warned against the expected rise in drunk driving accidents and petty crimes this holiday season.
DCPO spokesperson PMaj Catherine Dela Rey, in an interview during the Madayaw Davao program aired over the Davao City Disaster Radio on Monday, said the DCPO is currently intensifying its information campaign against drunk driving in the city amidst the numerous celebrations people will be attending this month.
To remedy this, the DCPO is constantly reminding citizens to drink responsibly and refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol.
“Isa na sa atong mga reminders na, siyempre, daghan na man gyud kaayo ang mga okasyon, parties— kasagaran sa mga parties naa gyud ng makahubog. So nag-remind mi na kung makainom lang galing mo, ayaw na mo pag-drive (That is one of our reminders since, of course, there will be a lot of occasions, parties—most of which involve liquor. So we are reminding people not to drink and drive),” dela Rey said.
She advised people with the intent to drink during parties and events to take a taxi home or have someone pick them up.
Dela Rey said so far no crime has been reported in relation to the Pasko Fiesta since its opening on December 1. Though an increase in crimes against persons and property is usually recorded during Christmas season, this trend is yet to be seen in Davao City.
Dela Rey said the people’s heightened vigilance due to the city’s “culture of security’ has curbed the trend.
“Naay mga ginagmay na petty crimes apan dili pud ingana ka taas na mabalaka ta kay aware na man oud gud ang mga katawhan na inganing mga panahon vigilant na pud sila, naga-amping sila sa ilahang gamit (There were a number of petty crimes but not that high to warrant concern because the people are also now aware that at this time they’re very vigilant, they’re very careful of their possessions),” she said.
The DCPO spokesperson added that the liquor ban and curfew on minors will remain enforced all throughout the season.
“Dili maputol ang atong curfew on minors ug liquor ban, naa gihapoy limit. Kung gusto mo mag-inom, sa sulod lang sa balay (Our curfew on minors and the liquor ban will not stop, there are still limits. If you want to drink, do it inside your homes),” she said.
Police officers and security personnel will continue patrolling public places and establishments even during Christmas and New Year’s to ensure the liquor ban and curfew are followed. CIO
