The Philippine National Police (PNP) is exploring closer coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd) to institutionalize weekly police participation in school flag-raising ceremonies and related activities as part of efforts to strengthen campus safety and build stronger community ties.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the initiative seeks to expand an existing practice he previously implemented during his assignments in CALABARZON, the National Capital Region, and other provincial postings, where police officers regularly engaged with schools through ceremonial and educational activities.
The proposal aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., through Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to reinforce school safety mechanisms and strengthen coordination among government agencies, local government units, schools, and community stakeholders.
“Our goal is not to police the classroom but to build trust and provide a sense of security. When students regularly see police officers during flag ceremonies and school activities, they are reminded that law enforcement is part of the community and is ready to help,” Nartatez said.
The move comes in the wake of the June 22 school shooting incident in Tacloban City that left at least three students dead, prompting renewed discussions on campus security protocols and preventive measures.
Under the proposal, police officers assigned to school engagements may assist in leading civic exercises such as the recitation of the “Panatang Makabayan” and interact with students before returning to their regular duties.
PNP leadership clarified that the initiative does not involve routine police patrols inside school campuses. Instead, it focuses on structured coordination with DepEd officials and school administrators to allow voluntary police presence during designated school activities.
Officials emphasized that the program is designed to enhance visibility as a deterrent to potential threats while also encouraging students to report concerns and engage more openly with law enforcement.
“Visibility can discourage criminal acts, but more importantly, it encourages students to approach us, report concerns early, and become partners in keeping their schools safe,” Nartatez said.
The PNP said discussions with DepEd and other stakeholders will continue to refine the framework, ensuring that schools remain safe yet welcoming environments for learning, without compromising the authority of school officials or the integrity of academic spaces.
“Our presence is about safety, mentorship, and engagement—not turning schools into police zones,” Nartatez added.