Manila Bulletin
Philippines
National
DepEd orders stricter school safety measures to prevent violence, protect learners
Philippines
National
DepEd orders stricter school safety measures to prevent violence, protect learners
DepEd orders stricter school safety measures to prevent violence, protect learners
New memorandum strengthens child protection policies, bans deadly weapons, and requires stricter campus security protocols in all Philippine public schools
Published Aug 9, 2025 08:14 pm
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Updated Aug 10, 2025 12:32 am
At A Glance
- DepEd orders stricter nationwide school safety measures, including bag checks, more guards, and controlled access to prevent violence
- The department also reinforces its Child Protection Policy, banning violence, abuse, and deadly weapons on campus
- Schools are also required to report abuse, provide mental health support, and collaborate with local authorities to ensure safe learning environments
DepEd asks schools nationwide to enforce stricter safety measures to prevent violence and protect learners through enhanced child protection policies and security protocols. (MB / file photo)
The Department of Education (DepEd) has ordered stricter school safety measures and reinforced its violence prevention policies to protect learners and maintain secure learning environments across the country.
The directive follows a recent incident that raised concerns over school security.
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In a memorandum dated August 8, Education Secretary Sonny Angara instructed all regional offices, schools division offices, and basic education institutions to intensify protocols aimed at preventing violence, bullying, and other threats to learner safety.
“This memorandum is issued to ensure the heightened vigilance and preparedness of all schools in the face of emerging threats,” the memo read, reaffirming DepEd’s commitment to providing safe and protective learning spaces for students, teachers, and school personnel.
DepEd child protection and anti-violence policies
The directive cites DepEd Order No. 40, s. 2012, or the Child Protection Policy, which prohibits acts of violence, abuse, and exploitation, as well as the possession of prohibited items such as deadly weapons, illegal drugs, alcohol, toxic substances, and pornographic materials on school premises.
Angara also referenced DepEd Order No. 007, s. 2024, or the Policy Guidelines on the Implementation of the Revised School-Based Management System, which emphasizes the shared responsibility of the school community in ensuring safe, inclusive, resilient, and learner-centered environments.
Mandatory school safety measures for all public schools
Under the new guidelines, schools must strictly enforce the following:
- Security inspections of bags and belongings at entry points, increased visibility of guards, and controlled access to school grounds.
- Total prohibition of firearms and other banned items within the campus.
- Strengthened reporting systems for child abuse, bullying, gang-related violence, gender-based violence, and other threats.
- Mental health and psychosocial support programs for learners, including youth development initiatives.
- Partnerships with local government units (LGUs), barangay officials, and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to address external risks.
- Localized school safety plans and contingency protocols suited to the needs of specific communities.
DepEd’s call for safer, more nurturing learning environments
DepEd said these initiatives aim to foster a culture of peace, mutual respect, and accountability in all Philippine schools.
The Department also urged stakeholders—including parents, educators, and local authorities—to work together to make schools safe, secure, and conducive to learning.
The memorandum on school safety takes effect immediately, applies to all public schools nationwide, and must be implemented with strict compliance, DepEd said.