The Philippine National Police has expressed support for the proposed implementation of mandatory bag inspections in schools nationwide as part of efforts to strengthen campus security following recent threats of violence.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the proposed policy could help prevent the entry of deadly weapons and other prohibited items into school campuses.
The measure is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., through the guidance of DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen measures aimed at ensuring the safety and security of students, teachers, and school personnel in learning institutions across the country.
“The PNP fully supports the strengthening of security protocols in schools to ensure the safety of students and teachers following recent threats of violence,” PGEN Nartatez said.
The Department of Education is studying the proposal following the fatal shooting incident in Tacloban City that claimed the lives of three students.
Education officials said mandatory bag inspections are among the security measures being considered to prevent similar incidents from happening again.
DepEd also said it is taking into account the size of schools before implementing the policy, noting that larger campuses may face logistical challenges because of the volume of students entering school premises.
Nartatez said the PNP is ready to assist once the policy has been finalized and approved by the concerned authorities.
“Our personnel can assist in enforcing these policies once they have been finalized and approved by the concerned authorities,” PGEN Nartatez said.
He assured the public that the PNP will continue working closely with the education sector to improve campus security.
“The PNP will continue to coordinate with school officials across the country to further strengthen campus safety measures and security protocols,” PGEN Nartatez said.
The PNP said sustained coordination between law enforcement agencies and school officials remains essential in maintaining safe learning environments.