75 Bacolod City public schools equipped with handheld metal detectors
METAL detectors for Bacolod City school. (Mayor Greg Gasataya FB)
BACOLOD CITY – This highly urbanized city received 200 handheld metal detectors from private donors for the use of 75 public elementary and high schools to strengthen campus security measures.
On Tuesday, Mayor Greg Gasataya turned over the scanning devices to Department of Education (DepEd) Bacolod City Schools Division Superintendent Dennis Develos in the presence of Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) Director Police Col. Eugenio Rebadomia at the City Mayor’s Office.
“We discussed how to help public schools in Bacolod not just in police visibility, but also in terms of providing protection and ensuring the safety of students through inspections when entering the campus. We are fortunate and grateful for the private groups and individuals who donated these handheld metal detectors,” Gasataya said in an interview.
Gasataya said DepEd-Bacolod City will decide on the number of units of handheld metal detectors that will be provided to each school.
Since last month, the Bacolod City National High School has been using metal detectors during inspections at its entrance gate.
Gasataya said the city government is also preparing to procure additional security equipment, particularly walk-through metal detectors, which are needed in some schools.
“The DepEd has recommended the number of walk-through scanners needed. They have also identified which schools these can be installed in, since there are those not ready for installation. The purchase request is being prepared and also the funding requirement for it. We are waiting for the specifications for the walk-through metal detectors,” he added.
Develos said the handheld metal detectors will reinforce security in public schools around the city.
“This equipment will serve as a deterrent as we ensure that all students are safe once inside the school campus. The inspection process at school entrances will be faster and more efficient,” he said.
After the fatal shooting incident at the San Jose National High School in Tacloban City last month, the DepEd has stepped up security measures in campuses across the country.
The BCPO has also been conducting a simulation exercise for active shooting incidents in various public schools here as part of the efforts to keep campuses safe and secure.
The Philippine National Police has tasked local police offices and units to coordinate with the DepEd in holding active shooter drills in all schools nationwide. (PNA)