CITY TOURISM Operations Office chief Jennifer Romero agrees to revisit the “no backpack” policy as long the changes won’t compromise the security of Davaoeños and visitors.
“Atong tan awn ang entire sector kay security is also one thing, while we are promoting we cannot also take for granted the security,” Romero said during a sideline interview after the 83rd anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan on Wednesday.
The policy revision arose from a post of a mother, named Hanna Cano, who went to the Rio Carnival on the Davao City Coastal Road with her 4-year-old son, who was denied entry due to the backpack. Inside the “baby” backpack were essential needs for the child.
Romero said it is “high time” to revisit the policy since the post of the mother highlighted similar concerns regarding the inconvenience brought about by its implementation. She said the complaint was completely “valid” since Cano was speaking in the context of being a mother.
However, whatever the results of the consultation must be coupled with a strong security enforcement.
“If naa man gud double standard, diha pud ta malutsan sa atong security and that will also somehow give a great effect for our tourism so it goes hand in hand,” Romero stressed.
The official said they are willing to discuss the issue with the Public Safety and Security Office as implementing office and Councilor Luna Acosta, the city council’s committee chair on peace and public safety.
PSSO Chief Angel Sumagaysay told reporters on Tuesday that the office of the councilor is collating all suggestions from the security cluster for proper action.
Sumagaysay said there might be possible amendments on the backpack size and definition of terms.
“Medyo confusing sya kay masyadong generic, daghang klaseng backpacks, may gamay, may dako,” he added.
He also said they did not receive any complaints from tourists. In fact, foreigners even appreciated the policy as they felt safe during their stay in the city.
