Davao City: The Davao City Mayor’s Office conducted an inquiry into the derby that happened on March 7, 10, and 12, 2020 at the New Matina Gallera.
The facts uncovered are as follows:
On February 4, 2020, the Sangguniang Panlungsod Council issued a Resolution to approve the request for conduct of a derby.
On March 3, 2020, the Davao City Business Permit and Licensing Division issued the permit after all the required documents were duly submitted and complied with.
On March 8, 2020, the Guidelines No. on Covid 19 was issued. It did not prohibit the conduct of private events, however, it clearly set the direction of postponing such events.
On March 12, 2020, I instructed the Davao City Police Office to shut down all galleras upon learning about the ongoing derby.
Based on the documents presented and the timeline covering the community quarantine implemented because of Covid-19, there was no law violated.
It is, however, noted that on March 3 and 8, the Division Chief of the Business Permit and Licensing Division could have stopped the conduct of the derby and further prevented the situation from escalating, but did not vigorously act on it. It was a judgment call that was never made. This person already tendered resignation effective April 4, 2020.
This serves as a reminder for all officials in the City Government to always put forward the general welfare of the residents of the city.
I hope that this shall be a lesson that no one will ever forget, especially for those who work to serve Davao City and the Dabawenyos.
Thank you.