Senator Mark Villar has called on authorities to heighten school security following the fatal stabbing of a Grade 9 student at Las Piñas National High School, highlighting the urgent need for measures to protect students.
Expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy, Villar emphasized that schools must remain safe spaces where children can learn and pursue their dreams without the threat of harm.
”Our schools must always be places of safety, learning, and hope—not places where our children are exposed to violence and danger. No student should ever have to fear for their safety while pursuing their education and dreams,” Villar said.
The senator extended his condolences to the victim’s family and confirmed that his office is providing assistance. He also demanded a swift investigation, accountability, and a thorough review of current school security protocols to prevent similar incidents.
Additionally, Villar urged teachers, parents, and community members to work together in fostering empathy, respect, and peaceful conflict resolution among youth.
He noted that the tragedy highlights the urgency of passing his proposed Senate Bill No. 2321, or the Learning Institution’s Guaranteed Threat Avoidance and Safety (LIGTAS) Act.
The bill seeks to enhance school safety by increasing police visibility, establishing joint threat assessment protocols, and setting up direct emergency response lines between schools and first responders. It also mandates emergency parent notification systems, on-site medical supplies, trained healthcare personnel, and security guards.
Other key provisions include installing CCTVs in strategic areas, implementing security screening, and conducting regular safety drills for students and staff.
”Hindi na natin maibabalik ang buhay na nawala dahil sa masakit na trahedyang ito, ngunit hindi tayo maaaring manatiling walang ginagawa. Kailangan nating kumilos nang maiwasan ang ganitong mga pangyayari at tiyaking ligtas ang bawat paaralan para sa ating mga anak. Ang bawat batang Pilipino ay may karapatang makapag-aral sa isang kapaligirang ligtas, protektado, at malaya mula sa anumang uri ng karahasan,” Villar stated.
The incident took place on the afternoon of Friday, July 31, when a 13-year-old student was fatally stabbed by a 14-year-old classmate during an argument inside the campus.