The Department of Education (DepEd) Division of Dumaguete City has intensified security measures in schools following the fatal shooting at a campus in Tacloban City, an official said yesterday.
Juditha Mapue, assistant schools division superintendent of DepEd-Dumaguete, said the enhanced security protocols aim to safeguard students, teachers, school personnel, and visitors from potential threats and violent incidents.
The move came after a shooting inside a school in Tacloban City on Monday, June 22, involving two teenage students who allegedly shot three people dead and injured several other learners.
“We have posted emergency hotline numbers and safety reminders in schools and are implementing additional security measures to ensure the safety of everyone on campus,” Mapue said in an interview.
Among the measures being enforced are manual bag inspections and the use of metal detectors at school entrances. DepEd has also coordinated with the city police to increase police visibility in and around school premises.
Barangay tanod (village watchmen) have likewise been requested to conduct regular patrols near schools as part of efforts to deter possible security threats.
Mapue said teachers have been reminded to remain vigilant and immediately report students displaying unusual or concerning behavior.
At the same time, guidance counselors and teachers trained in counseling have been instructed to closely monitor learners who may need emotional, psychological, or professional intervention.
She stressed that addressing behavioral concerns among students requires a supportive and compassionate approach.
“Students who seek guidance should feel that they are being heard and can trust the people helping them,” she said.
Mapue added that preventing campus violence and ensuring the well-being of children requires the collective effort of schools, parents, local communities, and law enforcement agencies.
She emphasized that schools play a vital role in promoting a safe learning environment, but the responsibility of guiding and molding children is shared by families and the broader community. (PNA)