Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered nationwide police commanders to step up security protocols around educational institutions following recent violent attacks in Tacloban City and Cavite.
Speaking at the weekly flag-raising ceremony in Camp Crame, Nartatez voiced deep concern over the recent stabbing and shooting incidents.
He ordered police units to scale up their protection strategies for students, educators, and school staff, stating:
“I therefore direct all police commanders to strengthen police visibility around schools, intensify preventive patrols, conduct security assessments and sustain close coordination with school authorities, local government units, parents and community stakeholders.”
The PNP chief stressed the importance of anticipating risks to ensure campus safety, adding:
“Let us remain proactive and vigilant in addressing threats before they escalate into incidents.”
Addressing operational boundaries, PNP Public Information Office chief Col. Allen Rae Co noted that law enforcers are typically barred from entering school grounds to preserve campuses as designated zones of peace.
To bridge this security gap, Co revealed that the PNP has submitted several safety recommendations to the Department of Education. He acknowledged that while many public schools lack the budget for advanced security infrastructure—such as metal detectors, X-ray machines, and professional security teams—alternative solutions are being explored.
One key proposal includes deploying barangay watchmen (tanods) to assist school authorities in screening visitors and blocking the entry of weapons.
The PNP is currently revitalizing its partnership with school heads and local communities to implement these safeguards and deter future violence.