The Philippine National Police (PNP) has assigned more than 33,000 police personnel to ensure the safety and security of the opening of classes for School Year 2024-2025 starting Monday.
Comprehensive Readiness
“In anticipation of the opening of classes today, the PNP has announced its comprehensive readiness to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and parents nationwide,” the PNP said in a statement. A total of 33,286 personnel will be deployed to various schools across the country to ensure an orderly start to the academic year.
Security Measures
- Police Assistance Desks (PADs): These will be established to respond to safety concerns and provide immediate assistance within schools.
- Foot and Mobile Patrols: Increased patrols around campus premises will help prevent crimes and ensure quick response to any incidents.
Assistance for Weather-Affected Schools
The PNP will also support schools that delayed their class openings due to the damage caused by the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) and Tropical Cyclone Carina last week. The Department of Education (DepEd) has postponed the start of classes for 842 public schools across five regions due to these weather disturbances.
Community Support
In addition to security measures, the PNP participated in Brigada Eskwela clean-up efforts in areas affected by the inclement weather to ensure that students will have safe and clean classrooms and campus facilities.
Enrollment Data
As of 9 a.m. on Sunday, DepEd reported that 19,268,747 students have enrolled in public and private schools, including state and local universities and colleges (SUCs/LUCs), and the Alternative Learning System (ALS).
PNP Chief’s Statement
“The safety of our children as they return to school is our utmost priority,” said PNP Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil. “We encourage everyone to cooperate and report any suspicious activities to the nearest PAD or local authorities.”