BY GLORIA LEODIVICA INES ARANETA
The City Government of Tagbilaran is set to provide free transparent backpacks to all 18,532 public elementary and high school students in the city.
The initiative is part of a proactive effort to enhance school safety amid recent concerns and incidents involving violence in educational institutions.
The program was announced by Mayor Jane Yap.
It aims to provide an additional safety measure in public schools by making the contents of students’ bags visible.
The program reflects the city government’s commitment to taking preventive measures to help create safer learning environments for children and young people.
“For us, the safety of our children is a priority,” Mayor Yap said.
“As a mother, when the safety of our children is involved, we have to act immediately,” she added, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to protect students.
Beyond its safety component, the program also carries a livelihood dimension.
Rather than purchasing ready-made backpacks, the city will tap its own TESDA-trained livelihood graduates through the Tagbilaran Livelihood Center to produce the transparent bags.
The approach creates a dual benefit for the community.
It provides students with a safety-oriented school item while generating employment and income opportunities for local livelihood beneficiaries.
With the program, the city government is demonstrating how a single public initiative can address both education and livelihood concerns.
It also keeps local resources and opportunities within the community.