The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered all its regional offices and local stations to intensify coordination with schools and local government units (LGUs) to bolster security measures for students, particularly during off-campus activities.
Directive follows presidential order
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that the directive responds to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s call to improve learner safety after recent school violence incidents and student accidents. Under the order, police units nationwide must establish regular coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to develop security and safety plans for school activities outside campus.
Proactive coordination urged
Nartatez encouraged school administrators to contact their local police stations before holding major off-campus events. This allows authorities to conduct security assessments, prepare emergency response plans, manage traffic, and coordinate with rescue and medical teams. He emphasized that effective planning and collaboration among schools, police, and local authorities are essential to prevent incidents and ensure student safety.
Recent incidents highlight need
The PNP cited DepEd's request for stronger campus security and increased police visibility following a fatal shooting inside a school in Tacloban City that killed three students. Police commanders have also been ordered to include schools in their patrol and visibility plans while strengthening communication and reporting mechanisms with school officials.
Nartatez noted that a recent drowning incident involving student-athletes from Ateneo de Manila University during an off-campus activity further underscores the need for advance coordination and comprehensive safety planning for school events held outside educational institutions.
Ongoing collaboration
The PNP will continue working closely with DepEd, CHED, and LGUs to ensure appropriate security and emergency measures are in place to protect students participating in educational activities both inside and outside school campuses.
