The Puerto Princesa City Police Office (PPCPO) has intensified police visibility in schools across the city following the deadly shooting at a public high school in Tacloban City that left three students dead and 13 others wounded.
The move comes as the Philippine National Police ordered heightened security measures in educational institutions nationwide after two Grade 9 students allegedly opened fire inside San Jose National High School in Tacloban on Monday, triggering panic among students, teachers, and parents.
In Puerto Princesa, police have increased patrols and security monitoring in and around schools, particularly during opening and dismissal hours and other periods when students congregate.
The PPCPO said officers are conducting regular foot and mobile patrols, school vicinity inspections, and security assessments to identify and address potential threats before they escalate.
The city police office is also strengthening coordination with school administrators, the Department of Education, local government units, Parent-Teacher Associations, barangay officials, and other stakeholders to improve information sharing and ensure the immediate reporting of security concerns.
“As part of its proactive approach, the PPCPO continues to maintain close coordination with school administrators, the Department of Education (DepEd), local government units, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), barangay officials, and other stakeholders to strengthen information sharing and ensure the immediate reporting and response to any security concerns affecting educational institutions,” the police office said in a statement.
Beyond patrol operations, police are conducting school visitation programs, dialogue sessions, and crime prevention awareness campaigns while deploying personnel in strategic areas near schools.
PPCPO Officer-in-Charge Colonel David A. Toctocan Jr. said the safety of learners remains among the police force’s highest priorities.
“Parents and guardians should feel assured that their children are safe while in school. Through heightened police visibility, strengthened partnerships with educational institutions, and proactive security measures, the Puerto Princesa City Police Office remains committed to ensuring that schools continue to be safe spaces for learning and development,” Toctocan said.
The police chief stressed that the enhanced security measures are preventive in nature, noting that no similar incidents have been reported in Puerto Princesa City.
“While no similar incidents have been reported in Puerto Princesa City, the PPCPO remains vigilant and prepared to respond to any situation that may threaten the security of students, teachers, and school personnel,” the statement said.
The city police office also assured the public of its continued commitment to maintaining a secure environment for learners and educators.
“The Puerto Princesa City Police Office assures the public of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding educational institutions and maintaining a secure environment conducive to learning,” it added.
