THE Davao City Police Office (DCPO) clarified that they will not allow backpacks inside the cemeteries for security purposes as full alert status has been implemented in Davao City in the observance of All Saints’ and All Souls’ days.

In an interview on Friday, November 1, with DCPO spokesperson Police Captain Nolan Tagsip, he said that they discouraged the carrying of backpacks inside the cemeteries as they have earlier announced but it would still be the discretion of the ground commander whether to allow it or not.

“We have standing policy na bawal pero pag ma-assess naman ng commanders on the ground like backpack. May control point naman tayo kung saan sila papasok so ma-check parin sila (We have a control point where they can enter and be checked),” Tasgip said.

He added, “In general order, bawal talaga (it is prohibited). May mga backpack na transparent or maliliit pwedeng mabigyan ng consideration (There are small or transparent backpacks that can be given consideration).”

Before entering the cemeteries, the public has to go through the control point installed by law enforcement agencies to check the people who will be visiting the tombs of their loved ones at the same time, an assistance desk was also provided to address complaint.

On November 1, some visitors at Wireless cemetery were barred from entering as they were wearing backpacks.

Tagsip, thus, reminded the public who will still be visiting today, November 2, to just carry small bags to avoid inconvenience.

As of 4 p.m. Friday, he said that all the 35 cemeteries in the city have been generally peaceful and the security remains manageable. There were also no reported major incidents inside the cemeteries.

Authorities implemented maximum security to the public and prohibited the bringing of items such as sharp and pointed objects, liquors, knives, or any deadly weapon. Also, included in the list of prohibited items based on the previous year are illegal drugs, cigarettes, deadly weapons, playing cards, loud sound systems, and intoxicating beverages.