Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has directed police offices nationwide to adopt effective security measures to enhance safety in schools. "School safety is a continuously evolving challenge," PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. stated, emphasizing the importance of replicating best practices to ensure the protection of students and teachers.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PNP is prioritizing school safety amid recent incidents that have raised security concerns. Gen. Nartatez stressed the need for police units to take preventive measures rather than waiting for threats to escalate. He highlighted the importance of being proactive to prevent disruptions in the security situation within schools, aligning with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla.

One initiative emphasized is the revitalized security coverage program of the Cebu City Police Office, which includes foot and mobile patrols, along with regular school visits to strengthen police presence. Officers are also coordinating with school principals and teachers to address security concerns and enhance existing measures.

Gen. Nartatez recalled similar initiatives from his earlier career, underscoring the significance of good relationships between police and school communities. He reiterated that schools should remain safe havens for children, free from hostilities, and highlighted ongoing coordination with the Department of Education to improve safety efforts.

Meanwhile, in Western Visayas, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) is launching a regionwide awareness campaign about the country's Unified Emergency Hotline 911. Under Brig. Gen. Randulf T. Tua±o, PRO-6 is working with DepEd Region 6 to educate schoolchildren on the proper use of 911 through the distribution of informational materials.

The campaign aims to help children and school personnel understand the appropriate use of 911 during emergencies and the type of information needed when making a call. PRO-6 officials have coordinated with DepEd-Western Visayas leaders to implement the campaign in Iloilo City, with DepEd expressing support and facilitating guidance for school officials.