Davao City’s safety and security cluster held a robbery and hostage situation simulation exercise (SIMEX) in two big establishments in the city, as part of its ongoing efforts to ensure readiness for potential emergencies.
Public Safety and Security Office (PSSO) Head PLt.Col. Angel Sumagaysay (Ret.) told the City Information Office that the SIMEX aimed to assess and strengthen the coordination of the security cluster and other concerned units in responding to high-stress, real-world criminal scenarios particularly robbery-hostage scenarios. The simulation tested how swiftly and effectively authorities could neutralize threats, secure the area, and protect civilian lives under extreme pressure.
“We regularly conduct simulation exercises like this to make sure that our personnel are ready and equipped to swiftly neutralize threats. This is also to ensure the safety and security of Dabawenyos every day,” he said.
Sumagaysay added that SIMEX helps the security cluster keep pace with evolving criminal tactics by identifying gaps in older protocols.
“Criminal tactics evolve daily, so we also have to continuously improve our response mechanisms and protocols. Important diri ang mga SIMEX aron makita nato ang gaps and areas of improvement (Criminal tactics evolve daily, so we also have to continuously improve our response mechanisms and protocols. This is why SIMEX is important—so we can see the gaps and areas for improvement),” he emphasized.
The PSSO also urged Dabawenyos anew to participate and cooperate with the city’s security and safety protocols to maintain the peace and order of the city, and ensure the safety and security of the public.
“Public safety is not just the responsibility of the security cluster. This is everyone’s concern. Padayon ta’ng mahimong disiplinado ug matinumanon sa mga balaod sa siyudad (Public safety is not just the responsibility of the security cluster. This is everyone’s concern. Let us continue to be disciplined and obedient to the laws of the city),” Sumagaysay said. CIO
Written by: J. Villaluz
Edited by: A. Nawal
Photo by: J. Faelnar