Western Visayas schools adopt transparent bags amid shootings

ILOILO CITY — Schools across Western Visayas have begun adopting transparent bags as an additional security measure following incidents of school violence that raised concerns about student safety.

The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) described the initiative as a simple but practical way to prevent dangerous weapons and prohibited items from entering school premises.

In a statement, PRO-6 said several schools in the region have started implementing the use of transparent or see-through bags to strengthen campus security.

The initiative follows a recommendation made in September by PRO-6 Director Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño amid concerns over shooting incidents and other acts of violence inside schools.

The measure is intended to help school personnel identify potential security threats before they escalate into violent incidents.

PRO-6 said the initiative is being implemented in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), school administrators, local government units, parents and other stakeholders.

Several schools in Antique had already adopted the measure as of Oct. 19, 2026.

According to PRO-6, transparent bags allow teachers and school security personnel to see the contents of students’ belongings more easily, potentially discouraging the concealment of weapons and other prohibited items.

The police emphasized that the measure supplements existing school security protocols rather than replacing them.

Transparent bags, however, are only one component of broader campus safety efforts, which also depend on effective supervision, coordination with parents and timely reporting of potential threats.

Tuaño said the initiative underscores the importance of prevention and the shared responsibility of protecting students and school personnel.

“Safety is always better when we prevent a problem before it happens. The transparent bag is a practical additional measure that can help us spot potential risks early, but it should always be implemented with care and respect for our students,” he added.

The police director also emphasized that tighter security measures should not compromise children’s dignity, privacy and emotional well-being.

“We want our students to feel safe, not singled out. That is why proper coordination with schools, parents and our education partners is important. We can strengthen security while still maintaining a supportive and child-friendly learning environment,” he added.

PRO-6 stressed that schools implementing the transparent bag policy must comply with applicable child protection laws and DepEd policies while respecting students’ privacy and dignity.

School personnel and security partners were reminded to avoid intimidation, humiliation and other actions that could cause unnecessary fear, embarrassment or emotional distress among children.

The police also urged parents to take an active role in school safety by checking their children’s bags before they leave home.

Parents were encouraged to remind their children to bring only essential school supplies and other permitted items.

Students and members of the public were likewise urged to immediately report suspicious items or potential security threats to teachers, school authorities or the nearest police station.

PRO-6 maintained that preventing school violence requires cooperation among law enforcement agencies, educators, parents and communities.

The police said practical preventive measures, coupled with respect for children’s rights, can help maintain a safe, supportive and welcoming learning environment for students throughout Western Visayas.