DAVAO CITY – An estimated 50,000 people are expected to attend the "Parada Dabawenyo" (Davaoeño Parade) here on Sunday.
Aaside from the massive crowd of attendees, there are 300 confirmed contingents and 41 bands invited, the Davao City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) said Friday.
Harold Quibete, organizer of Parada Dabawenyo and "Hugyaw Dabaw," said drum and bugle, drum and lyre, brass, and marching bands entries are a maximum 150 members since it would affect the performance if they limit the number
"Parada Dabawenyo will be traversing a shortened route to feature C.M. Recto Street and minimize the number of road closures during the event. We also wanted to give all our commuters and private vehicles alternative routes," he said.
Groups with vehicles must proceed directly to the Davao City Police Office and then leave via Quimpo Boulevard.
They are permitted to return to Roxas Avenue if they wish to showcase their floats for Dabawenyos to capture photos.
"As for the walking contingents, they are instructed to take a right turn from the San Pedro Police Office, passing the Bonifacio Rotunda, to the pickup point in Felcris Centrale. LED walls will be set up in Magallanes, the main entrance, and behind the main stage to ensure that spectators are given the chance to witness the event," Quibete said.
Meanwhile, Public Safety and Security Office head Angel Sumagaysay said they deployed 7,050 personnel for the "Araw ng Dabaw" (Davao Day) major events.
Contingents are discouraged from distributing merchandise such as candies and t-shirts during the parade, as this might pose safety hazards and cause delays in the parade flow, he added.
He also reminded groups participating in the parade not to wear clothes resembling government security staff uniform. (PNA)
