Albay: Local government units (LGUs) in the Bicol Region are strengthening safety in public schools through additional security equipment, improved emergency communication systems, and skills training for students and community responders.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sto. Domingo, Albay Mayor Nomar Banda mentioned plans to expand closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in schools and establish a centralized public address system that could be used to relay emergency alerts. The LGU intends to coordinate with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office to study the system and explore connecting it with the Philippine National Police for emergency coordination.

The LGU also plans to conduct martial arts and self-defense training during the summer for students, parents, and village watchers (tanod). Banda emphasized that the training would equip participants with basic skills that could help them respond to emergencies. In his effort to enhance school security, Banda personally donated a walk-through metal detector to Sto. Domingo National High School and plans to provide another unit to San Fernando National High School within the month, ensuring that persons entering the premises are checked.

In another interview, San Fernando National High School Principal Serapion Gongona Jr. stated that they require all students to carry identification (ID) cards, conduct inspections, and use a school-purchased metal detector. "Those without an ID are not allowed to enter," Gongona said, adding that the school prohibits sharp objects and firearms to mitigate potential security threats from both outside and within the student community.

The school is also coordinating with concerned agencies, the Schools Division Office, and medical personnel to provide psychological first aid to learners. Shaila Jane Torre, a teacher at San Fernando National High School, stressed the importance of strengthening school safety measures to help teachers protect learners. "As teachers, our priority is the safety of our learners. It is very difficult for a teacher, especially when handling 30 to 50 students in a classroom, so we need to be prepared," Torre said.