In a move to tighten school security, the San Fernando City Schools Division in La Union has prohibited the use of backpacks among students, urging them instead to bring transparent bags that can be easily inspected.
The policy, announced through a memorandum by schools division superintendent Shiela Marie Primicias, aims to curb the entry of prohibited or dangerous items into school grounds.
“The primary objective of this policy is to promote safety and security within school premises and to prevent the concealment of prohibited items such as cigarettes, vapes, sharp objects, guns, ammunition and other potentially dangerous materials,” Primicias wrote in her directive.
She emphasized that the measure is part of a proactive strategy to create a “safe and conducive learning environment for everyone.”
To support this initiative, authorities have stepped up security across the region. According to Central Luzon police director Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo, 420 officers have been assigned to patrol schools and deter criminal activity. Additionally, 225 police assistance desks have been set up in strategic locations to respond swiftly to reports of bullying, theft, or other incidents.
