The Philippine National Police (PNP) is calling on parents to immediately contact 911 or seek help from the nearest police station if they observe unusual changes in their children's behavior. Early reporting could prevent minors from being recruited or influenced by extremist groups, according to PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr.
PNP chief urges parental vigilance
“We call on parents to closely monitor the online activities of their children. Our 911 is also a help line for the necessary intervention as a result of overexposure to online violence and other online activities,” Nartatez said in a statement on Friday. “Let us work together to shield them from various online threats and guide them to a path that would strengthen their character and achieve their goal as the hope and future of our country,” he added.
Senator exposes grooming link
The appeal followed a disclosure by Senator Risa Hontiveros that the alleged groomer of minor suspects in the Tacloban gun attack was reportedly linked to a transnational online group targeting children to promote violence and extremism. The PNP stated that this information is being taken seriously as investigators continue probing possible connections between online extremist groups and the recruitment of minors.
PNP commitment to protect youth
Nartatez also said the police organization remains committed to stopping extremist groups that target young people online. This aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s directive, through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen protection of minors from online exploitation, radicalization, and other safety threats. The PNP earlier expressed support for the Department of Education’s guidance counseling program, noting that personnel from the Women and Children Protection Desk can assist. Every police station has such a desk.
International coordination
Nartatez has directed concerned police units to strengthen coordination with foreign law enforcement counterparts as part of the ongoing investigation into these extremist groups.
Taguig offers free college entrance exam review
Meanwhile, the Taguig local government unit announced on Friday that around 1,500 incoming Grade 12 students are now taking free college entrance examination review classes under its Academic Competency and College Entry Support System (ACCESS). This 10-week program prepares students for admission to the country's top colleges and universities. ACCESS is conducted by Taguig and Taguig City University (TCU), in partnership with DepEd Taguig and Pateros. Launched on May 23, classes are held every Saturday until July 25, covering English, Mathematics, Science, Filipino, Social Science, Analytical Reasoning, and General Information. Mayor Lani Cayetano said ACCESS reflects the city's commitment to making quality educational opportunities more accessible to students preparing for higher education.
