The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a warning against the rising number of fake bomb or security threats in schools, which have caused fear and disrupted classes. PNP Public Information Office chief Colonel Allen Rae Co stated that some of these threats are fabricated by students attempting to avoid classes or exams.
Recent Violent Incidents Prompt Action
The warning comes after a bloody shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban, which left three people dead, and a stabbing incident at a private school in Cavite. “We do acknowledge the public's concern about recent events, especially in our schools, violence, and we are actively working with the school authorities, the local governments and other stakeholders to ensure the safety of our school children, our students,” Co said.
Heightened Security and Seizures
Due to stricter security measures and coordination, the PNP has seized weapons, knives, and illegal drugs in Iloilo, Aparri, and Mandaluyong before they could be used on school campuses. Meanwhile, Education Secretary Sonny Angara called on schools to coordinate with Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) to ensure the safety of students.
