Matalom: The Department of Education (DepEd) in Eastern Visayas has ordered the immediate tightening of school security protocols across the region following the tragic shooting of a teacher inside a classroom in Matalom, Leyte.

According to Philippines News Agency, DepEd Regional Director Ronelo Al Firmo issued on Friday a set of directives to all DepEd field offices aimed at strengthening campus security and preventing similar incidents in the future. These measures include prioritizing the hiring of security personnel in schools, coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) for increased visibility and presence in learning institutions, and engaging village officials for possible deployment of "tanods" (watchmen) to augment school security.

Schools have also been instructed to conduct proper training on school security protocols for all guards, equip security personnel with metal detectors, and implement strict security checks for everyone entering school premises. Firmo on Friday personally visited the wake of the slain teacher to convey DepEd's condolences and assure the family and the school community of full support during this difficult time.

The official also visited Agbanga Elementary School, the site of the incident, to assess the situation and oversee the implementation of immediate safety measures for teachers, learners, and staff. Firmo emphasized that the safety and well-being of teachers and learners remain the top priority of the DepEd regional office, underscoring that ensuring safe schools requires collective action from all sectors of the community.

DepEd's directives were issued two days after a teacher was fatally shot inside a classroom in Matalom town by her husband on Oct. 22, 2025. The 39-year-old victim, identified by the police as alias "Ellen," was reportedly shot and killed by her husband, "Lino," 49, who was unemployed. Following the attack, the suspect fled the scene aboard a minivan and was later involved in an armed standoff with police in the town center. Authorities confirmed he died by suicide at their residence shortly after the confrontation.

This incident marks the second reported act of violence on school grounds in Leyte province within the last two weeks. On Oct. 16, a teacher in Tanauan, Leyte, was shot and injured by her estranged husband, who was immediately arrested by authorities.