No-backpack policy in Zamboanga City Freedom Park this Holy Week

Zamboanga City on Wednesday evening started enforcing a no-backpack policy at the Mayor Cesar C. Climaco Freedom Park in Abong-Abong, Pasonanca, as part of security measures for the Holy Week.

A post on Mayor Belle Climaco's Facebook page showed this and other security rules took effect 6 p.m. Wednesday and will remain in force until 6 a.m. of Black Saturday.

The no-backpack policy is included in Executive Order 110 that prohibits these items within the Climaco Freedom Park in Abong-Abong, Pasonanca:
liquor and intoxicating drinks
audio/video equipment and playing of loud music
firearms, bladed weapons, backpacks and similar items.

"(P)olice are directed to confiscate and dispose immediately all prohibited items. Violators are to be conducted to the police station for investigation and filing of appropriate charges or imposition of fines," read the post.

The mayor also issued Executive Order 109 which provides a temporary rerouting scheme for roads leading to the Climaco Freedom Park.

It declares the park as a walk-in park for the duration of the Holy Week.

The park is considered a venue for the traditional vigil and Way of the Cross prayers.

Climaco called on police and military forces as well as barangay officials and volunteers and concerned agencies to ensure a solemn and orderly observance of the Holy Week.

Enforcement

For his part, city police chief Senior Superintendent Angelito Casimiro said people with backpacks will not be allowed to enter the Climaco Freedom Park.

Casimiro said this is part of the security measures to ensure solemnity and orderly and peaceful observance of the Holy Week.

The police and military are also implementing a comprehensive security plan at the park.

They are also securing other places of worship and convergence in the city proper and the barangays. —Joel Locsin/KG, GMA News