The Philippine National Police (PNP) has stepped up security in major commercial centers as parents and students begin shopping early for school supplies ahead of the June 8 opening of classes.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police units have adjusted their deployment plans to respond to the earlier back-to-school rush, following President Marcos’ directive to increase police visibility for public safety.
“We have anticipated the early surge in school shopping caused by the adjustments to the DepEd calendar, and the PNP has proactively recalibrated its deployment strategy to meet this shift,” Nartatez said.
The Department of Education (DepEd) will open School Year 2026–2027 on June 8 under a three-term academic calendar designed to improve learning continuity and reduce classroom disruptions.
Under the system, the first term will run from June to early September, the second from mid-September to early December, and the third from January 2027 to late March. The school year will end in April 2027.
The PNP said shopping areas such as Divisoria, Quiapo, Recto, Sta. Cruz, Baclaran, Greenhills, and major malls in Metro Manila and other parts of the country have recorded an early rise in foot traffic.
Nartatez ordered increased police visibility, foot patrols, K9 units, and covert personnel in high-density shopping zones to deter pickpockets, snatchers, and criminal groups that may take advantage of crowded areas.
“Our regional and local units are already on high alert, expanding our presence with maximum footprint deployment in high-density areas to guarantee public safety,” he said.
Police units are also coordinating with barangay officials and mall security teams to help manage crowds and ensure quick response to possible incidents.