The Philippine National Police is expanding its school-based safety and crime prevention campaign nationwide to protect students from crime, online exploitation, misinformation and radicalization.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the initiative would build on awareness programs conducted by the Police Community Affairs and Development Group and local police units.
The programs aim to educate students about personal safety, help them recognize potential threats and encourage them to become responsible members of their communities.
The campaign is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr., through the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen cooperation among law enforcement agencies, educational institutions and local communities.
“The PNP believes that crime prevention begins with awareness. By engaging students at an early age, we equip them with the knowledge to recognize threats, make responsible decisions, and become active partners in keeping their schools and communities safe,” Nartatez said.
The latest awareness activity was held on July 9 at San Juan City Science High School as part of Police Community Relations Month.
The PCADG, San Juan City Police Station and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency–National Capital Region conducted discussions on fake news, illegal drugs, terrorism, the Safe Spaces Act, bullying, active-shooter survival, crime prevention and the government’s peace and security programs.
“We have directed our police units to strengthen collaboration with schools and local stakeholders to sustain these preventive education programs,” Nartatez said.
The PNP chief also ordered police units to expand youth information campaigns on cyber safety, bullying, illegal drugs, online scams and responsible social media use.
“Early education is one of our strongest tools in preventing young people from becoming victims of crime, online exploitation, misinformation, or radicalization,” he said.
Nartatez said students who are properly informed are better equipped to identify risks, resist harmful influences and report suspicious activities before they escalate into more serious security concerns.
“When students are informed, they are better prepared to identify risks, reject harmful influences, and report suspicious activities. Our goal is to build a culture of safety, responsibility, and resilience among the youth,” Nartatez said.