Tacloban city: The Philippine National Police (PNP) ordered all police units nationwide to support the Department of Education's (DepEd) actively strengthened school safety measures following the shooting incident at the San Jose National High School in Tacloban City.
According to Philippines News Agency, PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., announced that the police organization will fully support the nationwide school security initiatives being implemented by Education Secretary Sonny Angara to ensure the safety of learners, teachers, and school personnel nationwide. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.'s directive, under the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to bolster school security and maintain a safe learning environment for every Filipino student.
The PNP has instructed all police regional and local units to closely coordinate with DepEd officials, conduct security assessments, increase police visibility around schools, and actively participate in intelligence-sharing and threat-monitoring efforts. The goal is to help create a secure learning environment where students can focus on their education without fear.
The DepEd recently launched a nationwide, multi-agency effort to strengthen school safety following the Tacloban City shooting. Measures include a nationwide school safety audit, increased police presence around schools, a review of existing safety policies, and allocation of funds for security equipment and infrastructure improvements.
Nartatez emphasized that the approach is community-oriented and preventive rather than intrusive. Police officers deployed near schools will engage with students, teachers, and parents professionally and approachable, focusing on safety, trust-building, and rapid response to concerns. The aim is to provide reassurance and confidence while deterring potential threats before they escalate.
Additionally, Nartatez highlighted the PNP's support for a thorough review of violent video games amid concerns that exposure to such content may contribute to copycat behavior among vulnerable minors. The PNP acknowledges the need for evidence-based studies on the effects of violent video games on children and adolescents, especially following recent incidents of youth violence.
Nartatez also tasked the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to monitor online spaces where school violence, copycat attacks, or violent extremist content may be glorified. He encouraged parents, schools, and communities to actively monitor children's online activities and promote responsible digital engagement, emphasizing that protecting youth requires a collaborative approach involving families, educators, law enforcement, and policymakers.
