Are schools safe? PNP reports surge in alleged threats across campuses

National

ARE schools becoming targets of growing threats?

Authorities are now stepping up monitoring and coordination after the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported an increase in alleged threats against educational institutions nationwide, as concern over student safety continues to build.

PNP public information chief Col. Allen Rae Co said authorities are coordinating with stakeholders to ensure the protection of students, noting an uptick in reported threats, although no supporting data was disclosed.

“We do acknowledge the public’s concern about recent events, especially in our schools. We are actively working with the school authorities, the local governments and other stakeholders to ensure the safety of our school children,” said PNP public information chief Col. Allen Rae Co in an Inquirer.net report.

The statement came after online reports claimed a shooting incident inside Bagong Silangan High School in Quezon City on Thursday. School officials later clarified that no shooting took place, explaining that students had mistaken a loud banging sound from a nearby construction site for gunfire, which then circulated on social media and sparked alarm.

Concerns over school security were further heightened following a deadly incident in Tacloban City last June, when two suspects opened fire inside San Jose National High School, killing three students and injuring 20 others.

In response to growing safety concerns, the Department of Education (DepEd) is urging schools to strengthen communication with parents and maximize existing engagement mechanisms to help prevent violence in school communities.

Education Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara called for stronger coordination between parents and teachers through general assemblies and regular Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meetings. He said these gatherings should help schools address learner behavior, attendance, and provide support for students needing assistance, while also reinforcing efforts on discipline, anti-bullying, digital citizenship, and mental health awareness.

“Schools cannot do this alone. Parents cannot do this alone. All of us are responsible for the safety of our children and the PTA is one of the most important bridges that connects the family, school and community in caring for the welfare of every student,” Angara said in the same article.

He added that schools may be guided by DepEd Order No. 13, series of 2022, which outlines the omnibus guidelines for the regulation of PTA operations.(MyTVCebu)