Nearly 46,000 Catholic faithful attended Masses in different churches across Davao City on the first day of the nine-day Misa de Gallo on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, according to the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).

DCPO said a total of 43 churches were secured across Davao City, including the San Pedro Cathedral, St. Jude Thaddeus Parish (PS 2–San Pedro), Assumption Parish, Redemptorist Parish (PS 18–Bajada), Sta. Ana Parish (PS 1–Sta. Ana), San Pablo Parish (PS 15–Ecoland), Our Lady of Lourdes Parish (PS 3–Talomo), Immaculate Conception Parish (PS 9–Tugbok), San Pedro Poveda Parish (PS 17–Baliok), Virgen de los Remedios Parish, and Sto. Rosario Parish (PS 8–Toril).

Police said the opening day of the traditional Misa de Gallo was peaceful and orderly.

“This peaceful and orderly gathering was made possible through the synchronized efforts of the DCPO, other security and safety clusters, force multipliers, parish-based volunteers, and the active cooperation of the community,” DCPO said.

DCPO director, Col. Mannan Muarip, led the police visibility operations and inspection of security posts.

Muarip had directed all units to intensify police visibility within church premises and surrounding areas, manage traffic flow, and remain alert against any potential threats or disturbances.

DCPO said sufficient personnel and resources were deployed in all churches and identified areas of convergence across the city.

“This unified effort aims to ensure the smooth conduct of worship activities, effective traffic management, and the prevention of any untoward incidents,” DCPO said.

“The successful and incident-free conduct of the first day of Misa de Gallo underscores the strong collaboration among law enforcement, local government units, partner agencies, and the community—demonstrating a shared commitment to preserving peace, order, and public safety during this significant religious tradition,” DCPO added.

In a report by GMA Super Radyo Davao, churchgoers also flocked to the “Siyam ka Kadlawon” Snack Bazaar, also known as Pamainit sa Pasko, where popular treats were being sold there, including puto bumbong, puto maya, sikwate, and more.

The Pamainit sa Pasko runs from December 16 to 24, 2025, from 12 midnight to 7 a.m.

(With reports from Jhesa Torrefranca, GMA Super Radyo Davao)