Manila: Mayor Joy Belmonte has ordered to intensify the safety and security measures in city schools following incidents of violence reported in various educational institutions across the country.
According to Philippines News Agency, in a social media post on Tuesday, the city government said that amid safety concerns inside school campuses, Belmonte immediately convened a meeting with concerned officials to strengthen interventions to better protect students, teachers, and school personnel. 'Agad na nagpatawag ng pulong si Mayor Joy Belmonte upang talakayin at paigtingin ang mga hakbang ng Pamahalaang Lungsod Quezon kaugnay ng mga insidente ng karahasan sa mga paaralan sa iba't ibang panig ng bansa (Mayor Joy Belmonte immediately called a meeting to discuss and intensify the measures of the Quezon City government regarding incidents of violence in schools across different parts of the country),' the post read.
'Layon ng lungsod na matiyak ang kaligtasan, seguridad, at kapakanan ng bawat mag-aaral, guro, at kawani sa mga paaralan (The city's aim is to ensure the safety, security, and welfare of every student, teacher, and staff in the schools),' it added. Among the measures being reinforced in QC schools is the implementation of stricter protocols to prevent weapons and other dangerous items from being brought inside the school grounds. The city will also conduct school security assessments and inspections to identify vulnerabilities and address safety-related concerns.
Police presence around schools will also be increased through intensified visibility operations and regular patrols, in coordination with the Philippine National Police. Meanwhile, at the community level, barangay tanods (village police) will receive additional training and support to strengthen their role in maintaining peace and order. School emergency response protocols will be enhanced to ensure preparedness for various scenarios, while regular drills and simulations will also be conducted to help schools respond effectively to emergencies and other critical incidents.
Acknowledging that school safety extends beyond the school's immediate vicinity, the city government will expand its values-formation and parent-engagement programs. It is also strengthening reporting and referral mechanisms for students who may require immediate assistance or intervention. To encourage reporting among students and the public in general, the city government will continue to promote awareness of available reporting channels, including the QC Helpline 122 and other child protection mechanisms.
Meanwhile, School Parent-Teacher Associations and community partners will also be mobilized to help maintain a safe environment for students and learners. As part of its long-term strategy, QC will push for greater youth participation in scouting and other development programs aimed at building leadership skills, character formation, preparedness, and a stronger sense of community service.
On Monday, three students died while about 20 others were hurt following a deadly shooting inside a classroom at the San Jose National High School in Tacloban City. The Eastern Visayas Police arrested two minor suspects, aged 14 and 15.
