MARIKINA CITY, Philippines — Mayor Maan Teodoro reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to campus safety, assuring parents that comprehensive security and mental health initiatives are underway in the city’s schools following the recent firearm attack in South Cotabato.
Offering her condolences to those impacted by the tragedy, Teodoro acknowledged the growing worry among local families.
“Alam ko ‘yung pangamba ng mga magulang, lalo na sa nangyaring shooting sa South Cotabato. Nakikiramay tayo sa mga biktima at sa kanilang mga pamilyang naapektuhan ng insidente,” she said.
Emphasizing that as a parent she recognizes the importance of student safety in schools, Teodoro outlined the concrete actions being taken by the city.
“Kaya gusto kong i-share ang ilan sa mga ginagawa natin para mas maging ligtas ang mga paaralan sa Marikina,” she added.
Among the early interventions was the distribution of high-grade metal detectors across both public and private educational institutions starting June 29. The city also increased police presence and deployed Office of Public Safety and Security (OPSS) personnel around school zones.
Additionally, the city government held training workshops with public and private school administrators to improve response readiness and prevention strategies for active shooter scenarios.
To address student well-being, Marikina collaborated with DepEd Marikina to recruit 31 guidance associates aimed at enhancing campus-based mental health services. Mayor Teodoro further called on qualified professionals in August to step into full-time guidance counselor roles within the public school system.