A new security measure is being considered for public schools following a string of shooting incidents, with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of Education (DepEd) working on an agreement to strengthen on-campus monitoring.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said Tuesday, September 22, that the memorandum of agreement between the two agencies could be released next week.
Tanods may be deployed inside schools
The proposed arrangement could allow barangay tanods to conduct visible patrols within school premises.
Castro said women barangay security officers are among those being considered for the assignment, although the final guidelines and deployment arrangements remain under review.
The measure seeks to provide a more visible security presence in schools and help authorities respond to potential threats.
Marcos orders action after deadly incident
The proposal comes after a recent shooting involving a 16-year-old Grade 9 student who allegedly opened fire on 10 classmates. Three people died in the incident, including the student.
Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was briefed on the case and had read the alleged letter attributed to the student.
According to Castro, Marcos described the incident as “very disturbing” and stressed the need for authorities to take action.
DSWD expands support for families
Beyond security measures, the government is also pursuing interventions focused on children, families and school communities.
Castro said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is providing parenting services to help families address challenges in raising children.
The agency is also implementing trauma-informed care for school personnel to help them identify concerning behaviors among students and respond appropriately.
