BACOLOD City – The Bacolod City Government has turned over 200 handheld metal detectors to the Department of Education (DepEd)-Bacolod Schools Division Office to strengthen security measures in public schools ahead of the new school year.
The turnover ceremony was held Tuesday, July 28, at the Bacolod City Government Center, led by Mayor Greg Gasataya and Schools Division Superintendent Dennis Develos.
Also present were Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) Director Col. Eugene Rebadomia, Rizal Elementary School Principal Pedro Crispe Jr., and Luis Hervias National High School Principal Herbert Tecson.
Gasataya said the handheld metal detectors were donated by private individuals and organizations, allowing the city government to immediately provide the devices to DepEd while it prepares to procure additional security equipment, including more handheld units and walk-through metal detectors.
“We are fortunate and grateful that private groups and individuals donated these handheld metal detectors, which we immediately turned over to DepEd for distribution to our public schools,” the mayor said.
He said the initiative forms part of the city’s continuing efforts to ensure a safer learning environment for students, teachers, and school personnel.
Gasataya also underscored the need for close coordination among the city government, DepEd, school administrators, and the BCPO in maintaining campus safety.
Develos thanked the city government and the donors, saying the additional security equipment will enhance inspection procedures at school entrances and help deter the entry of prohibited items into campuses.
He said the 200 handheld metal detectors will be distributed to 75 public schools in Bacolod, with priority given to schools that have yet to receive similar equipment.
Develos also welcomed the city government’s plan to provide more security devices in the coming months.
Gasataya said the initiative reflects the city’s commitment to creating safer and more secure learning environments through collaboration among government agencies, the private sector, and the community.(WDJ)/PN
