A teachers’ group on Monday, August 11, called on the government to make “serious investments” in school security following a deadly shooting incident that claimed the life of a teacher in Balabagan, Lanao del Sur.

The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC), in a statement, condemned the incident and extended its condolences to the family, colleagues, and students of the slain teacher.

TDC also stressed that the tragedy underscores the urgent need to protect teachers and learners.

“In a situation where even teachers become targets of violence, it follows that schools may be even less safe for our little children,” said TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas.

The group urged the government to deploy adequate security personnel in schools, provide proper safety equipment, and enforce strong policies to ensure safe learning environments.

“We reiterate that the government must invest seriously in securing our schools—by deploying adequate security personnel, providing proper equipment and enforcing strong policies for safe schools,” Basas said. 

Whole-of-society approach 

TDC also called for a “whole-of-society” approach to curb the growing culture of violence, urging collaboration among educators, parents, communities, and law enforcement.

The fatal shooting in Lanao del Sur occurred just days after another gun attack in a Nueva Ecija school, incidents which the group described as “deeply alarming.”

“We call for a thorough investigation of these incidents and hope they will not have a chilling effect on our teachers and learners, but instead serve as a wake-up call for urgent, coordinated action to protect our education spaces,” Basas added.

The teachers’ group emphasized that safe and secure schools are essential for quality education, warning that violence against educators not only endangers lives but also undermines the learning environment for children.

Last week, the Department of Education (DepEd) ordered stricter school safety measures to prevent violence and protect learners. 

A new memorandum was issued to strengthen child protection policies, ban deadly weapons, and require stricter campus security protocols in all Philippine public schools.