Manila: Agusan del Norte Lone District Representative Dale Corvera has called for the creation of a government task force to confront escalating threats in schools nationwide, warning that recent deadly incidents in Tacloban City and Zamboanga City underscore the urgency of coordinated action.

According to Philippines News Agency, Corvera, who is a member of the House Committee on Basic Education and Culture, emphasized that violence on campuses has grown beyond the capacity of the Department of Education (DepEd) to manage independently. He highlighted that the rising threats on school campuses, including violence, are beyond the control of a single agency.

Corvera pointed out that school violence stems from multiple, complex factors, including security concerns, mental health issues, and student discipline, rather than just online games, bullying, or radicalization. He argued that solutions must come from a shared community effort and inter-agency collaboration, advocating for DepEd to lead a task force composed of the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Department of Health (DOH), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

The proposed task force would be responsible for crafting measures aimed at eliminating opportunities for violence in schools and ensuring safer learning environments. Corvera noted that the incidents in Zamboanga and Tacloban reflect a global trend, with an alarming increase in the number of violent incidents in schools.

He urged for an immediate government response, warning that without decisive action, another tragedy could strike, emphasizing the critical need for a coordinated and comprehensive approach to address school violence.