Bacolod schools get 200 metal detectors

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The city government will distribute 200 handheld metal detectors to 75 public schools as part of continuing efforts to improve safety for students, teachers, and school personnel.

Mayor Greg Gasataya turned over the donated security devices Tuesday to the Department of Education Schools Division Office of Bacolod City, led by Schools Division Superintendent Dennis Develos.

Private individuals and organizations donated the metal detectors.

“We are fortunate and grateful to the donors,” Gasataya said.

The city is also preparing to procure additional security equipment, including handheld and walk-through metal detectors, to strengthen safety measures in public schools.

Gasataya said schools that have yet to receive similar equipment will be prioritized.

The city stepped up coordination with schools and law enforcement agencies following bomb threat hoaxes reported at some schools and a call center company.

Several violent incidents involving students have also raised concerns about campus security.

Develos thanked Gasataya and the donors, saying the handheld metal detectors would reinforce security at school entrances.

“These equipment will serve as a deterrent as we ensure that all students are safe once inside the school campus,” Develos said.

He added that the devices would help make entrance inspections faster and more efficient.

Also present at the turnover ceremony were Col. Eugene Rebadomia, director of the Bacolod City Police Office; Rizal Elementary School Principal Pedro Crispe Jr.; and Luis Hervias National High School Principal Herbert Tecson.