Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday highlighted the necessity for updated safety protocols and enhanced police presence in response to a series of violent incidents in public schools.
According to Philippines News Agency, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara voiced his concerns during a visit to San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, Leyte. The visit came after three separate incidents of campus violence in Tacloban City, General Trias City, and Cavite City, all involving children in conflict with the law.
Angara stated, "It's not just a peace and order problem. We see the need to manage our youth because they are exposed to a lot of violence online." He expressed his worries about potential copycat killings, similar to those seen in the United States, and emphasized the importance of updated safety guidelines to minimize losses and fatalities from school violence-related incidents.
Angara noted the absence of an existing protocol for active shooter situations, stressing the need for such measures to be identified and updated. Additionally, he underscored the importance of increasing police visibility to deter potential violence on school campuses. He expressed gratitude to the PNP Chief, Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., for advocating increased police presence, noting that teachers feel this serves as an effective deterrent to school-related violence.
Angara also called on public school teachers to be more vigilant regarding students' behaviors and situations, urging them to act as second parents and regularly check on the well-being of their students.
DepEd reported that three individuals died in a tragic shooting at San Jose National High School, with 20 others injured. Additionally, a Grade 11 student was reportedly stabbed by a schoolmate in Cavite City on June 19, and seven others were attacked by a knife-wielding peer in General Trias City on June 16.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) has urged government agencies to prioritize character development and the values of students amidst these violent incidents. In a statement, CEAP called for a focus not only on academic achievement and workforce readiness but also on the overall well-being of learners, emphasizing the importance of nurturing character, values, emotional well-being, and social responsibility.
The organization expressed alarm over the escalation of violence inside educational institutions, which has resulted in deaths and serious injuries. These incidents highlight the urgent need for comprehensive education reform that addresses both academic and character development.
