BACKPACKERS will not be barred from entering cemeteries during the annual observance of the All Saints' and All Souls' days on November 1 and 2, the Davao City Public Safety and Security Command Center (PSSCC) said.
PSSCC head Angel Sumagaysay said while cemeteries are considered a public place, the security forces will have some adjustments. Visitors with backpacks must undergo thorough inspection before entering the cemeteries.
He said banning backpacks in the area would give inconvenience to the visitors, since they would be bringing items such as food utensils, plates and even food which they would be placing in their bags.
"Although we would still allow them to enter the cemetery, but we encourage them as much as possible to use transparent bags," Sumagaysay said on Thursday, October 24, during the iSpeak media forum at the City Hall of Davao.
Meanwhile, he said they would still be implementing the "No Jacket Policy," wherein visitors would be asked to remove their jacket for inspection before entering the area.
Sumagaysay also reminded the public not to bring any bladed objects, alcoholic drinks, playing cards, mahjong or any gambling items and loud speakers/stereo.
The official said, in a previous report, that a total of 9,641 security personnel, law enforcement, and other force multipliers will be deployed in 35 cemeteries, including 16 large cemeteries in Davao City.