MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said it is all set to secure next week’s opening of classes for around 28 million students across the country.
In a press conference in Camp Crame, PNP chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said that under the Balik Eskwela program, where an area has a cluster of schools, the local police commander must put up a police assistance desk (PAD).
Schools will be guarded by at least two uniformed policemen who will also be assigned to take action on bullying complaints.
Aside from guarding students against bullying, Albayalde explained that the operation is meant to ensure the security and public safety; and prevent students from being victimized by drug traffickers, muggers and street gangs.
The police deployment will start next week under normal alert status with local commanders to be given the discretion whether to upgrade the status level.
Meanwhile, Albayalde expressed confidence that they will be able to address the security concerns of the more than 40 schools in Marawi City, which have also expressed plans to reopen on Monday. (PNA)
