By Brian Campued
The Department of Education (DepEd), in close coordination with law enforcement agencies, continues to bolster security protocols in schools across the country, as part of its efforts to allay the fears among the public with regard to the safety of children inside the campus and in the digital space.
In a comprehensive security briefing on Thursday with officials from the Philippine National Police (PNP), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and Cybercrime Investigation and Coordination Center (CICC), Education Secretary Sonny Angara underscored the need to intensify cyber and physical security measures in schools as well as improve intelligence sharing and threat response.
“Kailangan nating magtulungan at gamitin ang lahat ng puwersa ng gobyerno para masigurong ligtas ang bawat mag-aaral mula sa anumang banta o panganib,” Sec. Angara said.
Following the June 22 fatal shooting spree in San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte perpetrated by minor suspects that killed three students and injured 20 others, Angara ordered a nationwide school safety audit and a review of existing school safety policies, while the PNP increased its police visibility around schools.
Among the school-level policies that must be revisited, according to DepEd, include:
- Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE) under DepEd Order No. 006, s. 2026;
- Learner protection mechanisms under the Child Protection Policy or DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012;
- Anti-bullying efforts under Republic Act No. 10627; and
- School-based mental health and psychosocial support services.
The DepEd chief also assured public schools of funding for security equipment and infrastructure improvements, such as for procurement of handheld metal detectors and reinforcing of perimeter fences.
He also urged local school boards to utilize their Special Education Fund to support security and safety measures in their respective schools.
“Hindi tayo papayag na maging bahagi ng pagpasok sa paaralan ng ating mga anak ang takot. Gagawin natin ang lahat upang higit pang mapalakas ang seguridad, mailapit ang kinakailangang suporta, at maagapan ang mga panganib bago pa ito lumala,” he said.
Aside from continuous partnership with other government agencies to ensure child-centered and legally sound interventions on cases of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination, the Education department is also strengthening its collaboration with institutions and communities.
The agency is likewise regularly conducting training and orientations for teachers, guidance personnel, and parents to help them efficiently identify signs of bullying, violence, and other threats to learners.
Learner awareness programs are also in place to encourage students to seek help when experiencing or witnessing abuse by getting familiarized with reporting and referral mechanisms.
“Pinalalakas natin ang koordinasyon ng mga paaralan, lokal na pamahalaan, kapulisan, mga ahensya ng gobyerno, at mga katuwang na organisasyon upang maagapan ang mga panganib at matiyak na nananatiling ligtas ang ating mga paaralan,” Sec. Angara said.
Meanwhile, PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed all police regional offices and local units to coordinate closely with DepEd officials in their respective areas and provide assistance in security assessments and preventive measures.
Nartatez Jr. assured Angara that the PNP will fully support DepEd’s strengthened school security initiatives to ensure the safety of learners, teachers, and school personnel nationwide. (with report from Ryan Lesigues / PTV News)
-jpv
