The Philippine National Police will intensify the implementation of intensified security measures in schools.

This follows the recent violent incidents that happened inside the campus where both students are the suspects and victims.

PNP Chief PGen Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said that  “Violence has no place in our schools. Our learners, teachers and school personnel deserve an environment that is safe and conducive to learning.” 

Recently, a shooting incident occurred in  San Jose National High School in Tacloban City where three students died while six were wounded. 

According to Philippine National Police Public Information Office Chief, PCol.  Allen Rae Co, based on the investigation, the suspect had allegedly experienced depression. 

The firearms used by the suspect have already been confiscated. The 9mm pistol used by one student was owned by a police assigned to Police Regional Office 8, while the .38 caliber pistol used by another suspect was registered to a security agency. 

In light of this, the Civil Security Group orders the PNP Supervisory Office for Security and Investigation Agencies to authorize security guards to intensify the security measures. 

“May training naman ang ating mga security guard so dapat higpitan natin dahil sa mga itong mga insidente na nangyari. Malaking bagay ang maitutulong ng ating mga security guard sa ating mga schools to ensure the safety ng ating mga kabataan o ang ating mga estudyante na nag-aaral sa mga schools,” Civil Security Group Director PBGen. Aden Lagradante said

PNP Chief Police General Nartatez Jr. also ordered an intensification of police visibility around schools. 

“I therefore direct all police commanders to strengthen police visibility around schools. Intensify preventive patrols, conduct security assessments, and sustain close coordination with school authorities. Local government units, parents and community stakeholders, let us remain proactive and vigilant in addressing threats before they escalate into incident,” he said

The PNP is also working with the Department of Education to prevent the recurrence of violent incidents inside the schools. 

With reports from Lea Ylagan

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