DAPA, Siargao, Surigao del Norte – The Surigao del Norte Police Provincial Office (SDNPPO) is working diligently to ensure a safe and secure environment throughout the four-day 1st Dapa Siargao International Dragon Boat Festival from July 14 to 17. In a progress report on Monday, July 10, to Police Regional Office-13 Director Police Brig. Gen. Pablo G. Labra II, SDNPPO Director Police Col. Laudemer M. Laude said “no stone is unturned in its security preparations for the competition” that will kick off on Dapa Sunrise Boulevard here. Labra had earlier ordered the Surigao del Norte police to extend ample security for the international sea-game event. Laude said that they have already mobilized over 100 personnel and deployed specialized units to provide comprehensive security coverage for the festival's duration along with the police provincial mobile force. “Recognizing the significance of the 1st International Dragon Boat Festival here in promoting tourism and showcasing the natural beauty of Siargao, the SDNPPO has taken proactive measures to guarantee the safety of attendees, athletes, and residents alike,” Laude said. The SDNPPO has devised a detailed security plan encompassing various safety aspects in close collaboration with event organizers. The plan includes convergence with multi-sectoral agencies, enhanced surveillance measures, stringent access controls, and establishing dedicated command centers to coordinate security operations effectively, it said. “We are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all participants and attendees during the 1st Dapa Siargao International Dragon Boat Festival 2023,” said Laude, adding, “Our officers and men had undergone briefings and orientations to handle various contingencies, and we are well-prepared to respond to any potential challenges." The SDNPPO has collaborated with local government units to strengthen community engagement and heighten public awareness regarding security measures. Through information dissemination campaigns, residents have been encouraged to report suspicious activities or individuals, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and vigilance among the community, it said. Department of Tourism-13 Director Ivonnie B. Dumadag said that close to 1,000 paddlers are set to participate in this major international event. “With 24 confirmed teams of which five are from overseas, the activity is estimated to gather around 1,600 participants in the sea-game and this will further boost our campaign to attract more international and domestic tourists in the region that will directly contribute in reaching our 2023 target,” Dumadag added. On Friday, July 14, the local government unit, organizers, and participants will hold a grand parade here, followed by welcome dinner at Dapa Gymnasium. Top DOT-13 and provincial officials, town executives and officials led by Mayor Elizabeth T. Matugas, and officials in the other eight towns of this island and guests, both national and local, are expected during the grand opening and the four-day event, DOT 13 Senior Tourism Operations Officer Kylee Doreene O. Plaza said.