COUNCILOR Luna Acosta reminded Davaoeños and visitors that the “no backpack” policy will be enforced in maximum security zones, although there will be a few modifications in other areas.
“We would like to remind everyone who wanted to participate in our Kadayawan that backpacks are still not allowed in our maximum security zones,” Acosta said during the Pulong Pulong sa Dabawenyos on Tuesday.
The committee on peace and public safety chair said as much as possible, if visitors wanted to bring personal items, it is best to put them in a small bag or a clear container to avoid being flagged.
However, Acosta emphasized that there will be a few considerations, such as the size of the bag, and based on the events.
“Ang understanding namin ng security sector is as long as dili kaayo dako ang bag, we will post naman specific guidelines kung unsa lang gyud nag bag nga pwede masulod,” she said.
She cited as an example the small backpacks for children, which are easier to check.
“The safest thing to do, if it’s really big, wag niyo na dalahin sa area. But if it’s small enough to carry personal items, wala namang problema ang security sector as long as it is thoroughly checked,” she stressed.
She said it is the prerogative of the safety and security sector to determine the rules, which in this case is the Public Safety and Security Office.
The councilor cited the Indak Indak and Pamulak, which may allow small bags because it’s almost impossible to check all the people walking around.
In April this year, the Public Safety and Security Office shared that they are looking to amend the “no backpack policy” due to a post of a mother who brought her 4-year-old to the Rio Carnival along the Davao City Coastal Road.
The mother shared that she brought a “baby” backpack for the essentials of her child. “I believe this is a chance for us to have a conversation about existing policies. Of course, we respect the culture of security in Davao, pero perhaps meron tayong extra consideration if the place is really meant for kids,” she said.
