Manila: The Police Regional Office (PRO) 10 in Northern Mindanao has intensified security measures in schools following a fatal shooting incident at a school in Tacloban City, Leyte, earlier this week. Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano, the head of PRO-10, announced that additional police officers have been deployed across the region, particularly in areas frequently traveled by students.

According to Philippines News Agency, the security initiative includes having police personnel participate in flag-raising ceremonies at schools every Monday to enhance safety. Brig. Gen. Abrahano emphasized the importance of officers adhering to strict safekeeping protocols for their firearms to prevent unauthorized access and misuse by civilians, including family members.

PRO-10 spokesperson Maj. Joane Navarro stated that police officers who do not follow these firearm safekeeping protocols will face administrative charges. An initial investigation into the Tacloban shooting revealed that a minor involved in the incident used a Glock firearm, which was reportedly taken from a relative.

In response to the heightened security measures, the regional education office has called on the public to cooperate fully with the efforts to ensure the safety of students and school staff.