MANILA, Philippines — Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara admitted on Wednesday, October 28, that budget limitations continue to leave numerous public schools across the country without sufficient safety personnel and security equipment.
Speaking during an inspection tour of Lakan Dula High School in Tondo, Manila, Angara pointed to the facility as a benchmark for campus safety. The school features comprehensive security infrastructure, including dozens of surveillance cameras, a walk-through metal detector, and active community patrols backed by local government units and the alumni association.
During the visit, Angara observed a swift police response drill where law enforcement officers arrived at the campus within two minutes. To further protect students, the school has implemented digital and physical reporting mechanisms, such as classroom QR codes for discreetly reporting bullying or violence, alongside traditional feedback drop boxes.
Raquel Garcia, president of the school’s parent-teacher association, noted that parents actively contribute to campus security by monitoring school perimeters and participating in “Kaagapay” sessions—regular seminars designed to guide families through youth safety challenges and the risks tied to social media.
Barangay officials also assist by dispatching personnel for daily perimeter patrols.
While praising Lakan Dula High School as a model institution with zero reported violent incidents, Angara conceded that standard resources are missing in many other public schools facing issues like broken gates, low perimeter fences, and a shortage of guards.
To bridge these gaps, the Department of Education (DepEd) is closely monitoring vulnerable campuses and coordinating with local government units.
DepEd has also forged a partnership with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to increase barangay police presence around schools lacking adequate personnel, while efforts to hire additional security staff remain underway.
“Of course, may school audit tayo at pinapaganda natin ‘yung safety measures sa lahat ng security measures sa lahat ng paaralan,” Angara stated.