The Quezon City government has launched a whole-of-community program uniting schools, families, law enforcement, barangay officials, and civil society groups to safeguard students from violence, illegal drugs, and safety hazards.
The initiative, officially named the QC Safe Schools Whole-of-Community Framework, aims to bolster prevention and response mechanisms against bullying, discrimination, gang recruitment, unsafe online activities, and various risks facing learners.
Developed alongside the Department of Education-Schools Division Office and the Quezon City Police District, the framework outlines clear, coordinated responsibilities across all local stakeholders to ensure student welfare.
“Every learner has the right to feel safe, respected, and protected while they are in school,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said.
Under the framework, the city government will provide policy backing, enhance referral pathways, and conduct learner protection initiatives. Local police will focus on visibility, child-sensitive interventions, and active crime prevention, while educational institutions will enforce child protection policies, counseling services, and confidential reporting channels.
Families and barangays will play supporting roles through warning-sign identification training, positive value orientation, and emergency readiness. Furthermore, the city released a School Safety and Emergency Response Guide featuring the “I.A.D.D.” (Identify, Avoid, Deny, Defend) protocol to help students and faculty navigate active security threats.
Mayor Belmonte underscored the pivotal role of school officials in coordinating emergency responses and maintaining open lines with parents.
Residents and school personnel may report emergencies or safety concerns to the city through the QC Helpline 122 or national hotline 911.