Philippine Police Strengthen School Security and Child Protection in the Digital World

JAKARTA - The Philippine National Police or PNP will strengthen the child protection and cyber security programs in schools. The focus is not only to keep the learning environment safe, but also to prevent threats to students before they grow up.

The Philippine News Agency (PNA) quoted Monday, June 29, reported that the head of the PNP, General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., expressed full support for the plan of the Philippine Department of Education or DepEd to add guidance counselors and strengthen cooperation with the police.

The move is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive, through Minister of the Interior Jonvic Remulla, to increase cooperation between government agencies, local communities, and educational institutions in protecting students.

Nartatez said student protection could not be solely the responsibility of schools. The police, local government, parents, and the community must also take part.

"Guidance counselors play an important role in early intervention and student well-being, while the police can help ensure a safe learning environment," Nartatez said in a statement, Monday.

Education Minister Sonny Angara previously said that DepEd wanted to recruit more guidance counselors. DepEd will also strengthen partnerships with the PNP to improve student protection, mental health support, and campus security.

Nartatez then ordered all units of protection for women and children of the PNP to increase information campaigns in schools. The material includes bullying, violence against children, exploitation, violence against children, and online security.

He also asked the Anti-Cybercrime Group to expand cyber security education for students, teachers, and school staff. The goal is for them to be able to recognize online threats and prevent digital technology-based crimes more quickly.

According to Nartatez, the police's task is not only to be present after the problem occurs. The focus is on prevention, protection, and cooperation with educators, parents, and community leaders.

He said that the increase in the presence of the police around schools, a quick response to incidents, and support for child protection programs are expected to make students able to learn in a safe, orderly atmosphere, and support their development.