Manila: The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued a directive to all local government units (LGUs) to create Safer School Zones (SSZs) across the country. This initiative aims to deploy 277,744 barangay "tanod" or village cops to protect students from crime, violence, traffic hazards, and other threats in the vicinity of schools.

According to Philippines News Agency, Memorandum Circular No. 2026-037 institutionalizes the SSZs as part of the government's Safer Cities and Safer Communities Initiative. This directive involves collaboration among governors, city and municipal mayors, village chairpersons, the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other stakeholders to enhance safety and security around both public and private schools.

The local government units have been tasked with identifying and mitigating safety hazards and security risks within school zones. These include addressing issues like unsafe roads, inadequate pedestrian facilities, speeding vehicles, and potential fire and disaster risks. LGUs are encouraged to enact or reinforce ordinances related to traffic management, pedestrian safety, crime prevention, and public order in school areas.

The village cops will act as force multipliers by maintaining visibility, conducting roving patrols, assisting in traffic management, and providing immediate assistance. They are also responsible for promptly reporting or referring incidents to the appropriate authorities.

"Schools must remain places of learning, not places of fear," stated the DILG, emphasizing the administration's whole-of-nation approach to public safety and child protection. This strategy focuses on improving coordination among local governments, schools, law enforcement agencies, and communities.

The directive specifies that barangay tanod operations are confined to areas outside school premises unless authorized by school authorities or in cases requiring immediate lawful assistance. It also reiterates that village cops must remain unarmed civilian community support actors, referring incidents needing specialized response to the relevant authorities.

Consolidated data from DILG indicates that 277,744 barangay tanod serving in 42,010 villages nationwide are prepared to support the initiative. Their involvement is crucial for maintaining peace and order and enhancing public safety around school environments.