NCRPO to deploy over 5,000 cops to secure school opening in Metro Manila
The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be deploying more than 5,000 policemen to secure the opening of classes in 1,262 private and public schools in Metro Manila on Aug. 29.
NCRPO director Brig. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said they are now also coordinating with the Department of Education for the setting up of more than 600 police assistance desks (PADs) near the entrance gate of school campuses.
The PADs, he said, will be manned by 1,572 policemen and will cater to any concerns or queries from students, teachers, parents and other people.
“The police officers will intensify law enforcement activities at schools, transportation hubs, and places of convergence to secure students, guardians, and teachers from crime incidents such as physical injuries, robbery, and theft among others,” said Nartatez.
Among those that will be deployed, according to Nartatez, are members of the Explosive and Ordnance Division and K9 units.
He said a series of coordination meetings and dialogues with school officials have started to carry out public safety services.
These include drug abuse prevention, information drives, and other anti-criminality programs to prevent students from engaging in vices and illegal activities.
"The safety and security of the students is our top priority. We have already established a security plan including the deployment of our personnel ready to assist and watch over the safety of the students, as well as all the teachers and guardians," said Nartatez.
"I also encourage everyone to approach policemen whenever security concerns are needed for they will always be there to help you to ease your fear of being victims of lawless elements,” he added.