The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) and the Department of Education (DepEd) Iloilo City Division have initiated discussions on prospective school security measures, including a proposal to require transparent school bags, in a joint effort to prevent contraband and ensure student safety.

During a high-level coordination meeting on Monday, Sept. 21, officials led by ICPO City Director Police Colonel Wilbert B. Parilla presented the transparent bag proposal to DepEd representatives to gather initial feedback on its feasibility, acceptability, and potential operational challenges.

If adopted, the measure would serve as a deterrence strategy against the bringing of bladed weapons, firearms, or other prohibited items into school premises.

Police officials clarified that the transparent bag proposal is intended to complement—not replace—existing security protocols, such as heightened police visibility, strict access control, early threat reporting, and coordinated emergency response.

Beyond physical inspections, the joint meeting addressed broader student welfare and infrastructure enhancements.

Discussions highlighted DepEd’s plans to recruit school counselor associates to support mental health and conflict resolution, alongside physical facility upgrades including perimeter fencing and improved security locks.

“It is always better to be prepared than to respond after an incident has occurred,” PCOL Parilla stressed during the meeting.

“Taking proactive steps today can help prevent problems tomorrow and further strengthen the safety of our schools,” he added,

Joining Parilla during the meeting were ICPO officials Police Lieutenant Colonel Ricardo B. Jomuad Jr., Deputy City Director for Administration; Police Major Shella Mae A. Sangrines, CCADU Assistant Chief and spokesperson; Police Major Warren M. Calzado, City Legal Officer; and Police Lieutenant Ruth T. Laudato WCPD Chief.

Meanwhile, DepEd-Iloilo City was led by City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Ma. Luz De los Reyes and Assistant Superintendent Mr. Jerson B. Labos, alongside division chiefs for curriculum and governance, Education Program Supervisors, Human Resource heads, and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) team members.

The two agencies agreed to continue consultations with stakeholders, including parents and school administrators, as DepEd evaluates the security proposals.IMT