Manila: Learners of the biggest public secondary school in Antique have been requested to voluntarily submit their bags to frisking as part of security measures to help prevent a repeat of the fatal shooting in Leyte province. Three learners of San Jose National High School in Tacloban City died after fellow students, aged 14 and 15, opened fire mid-morning Monday. The suspects, alleged bullying victims, have been arrested.

According to Philippines News Agency, Antique National School (ANS) principal Roger Jomolo, in an interview on Tuesday, said frisking would ensure that no gun or any deadly weapon would be taken inside the school premises. ANS has 6,709 learners from Grades 7 to 12. 'We requested the learners to voluntarily submit their bags to frisking at the school entrance gate for their own safety,' Jomolo said.

Beginning this school year, the Antique Provincial Police Office (APPO) added two personnel to assist the ANS' four security guards. In a separate interview, APPO Director Col. Ryan Devaras said their officers will conduct random patrols in public schools in the province. 'We will also be conducting symposia among the learners for them to be aware of the importance of peacekeeping, including anti-bullying in their schools,' he said. Devaras appealed to parents to be responsible and nurturing of their children.