Cagayan De Oro:A child tracking system was launched on Thursday in the city to enhance school safety measures. The technology was developed in partnership with Lapasan National High School (LNHS) and the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP).

According to Philippines News agency, the system will cover more than 2,000 students enrolled this school year, utilizing a computer application and a quick response (QR) code mechanism. The QR-scanning system, developed by USTP researchers and faculty, provides real-time monitoring logs accessible on personal mobile gadgets such as cellular phones.

Ferdinand Vinco Jr., the principal of LNHS, expressed that the system would offer relief to parents regarding the whereabouts of their children and assist teachers in their roles as secondary caregivers. Jay Rojo, the project leader from USTP, mentioned that they hope more schools will adopt this system following the LNHS launch, with LNHS being the primary recipient.

In addition, Brig. Gen. Nestor Babagay Jr., director of the Police Regional Office - Northern Mindanao, emphasized the significance of a whole-of-community approach in ensuring school safety. He highlighted the importance of early reporting, community vigilance, and proper guidance in protecting children.

This initiative follows an incident at an elementary school where the Opol Municipal Police Station, through its Women and Children Protection Desk, responded to a report of a firearm, ammunition, and a bladed weapon found in a nine-year-old pupil's bag. The police have coordinated with the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer for the child's proper handling and the conduct of an investigation.