Ready for campus comeback: PNP to deploy nationwide security for safe June 8 school opening
At A Glance
- PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. ordered all police units to intensify visibility patrols and public assistance operations around schools and major thoroughfares as part of preparations for the return of millions of learners on June 8.
Personnel of Sto. Tomas City Police Station participate in Brigada Eskwela Kick-Off 2026 "Bayanihan sa Paaralan” at Sto. Tomas Senior High School in Barangay San Miguel, Sto. Tomas City, Batangas on May 29, 2026. (Photo: Sto. Tomas City Police Station)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) will mobilize nationwide security operations to guarantee a peaceful and orderly return of millions of students to their classrooms this June.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. ordered all police units to intensify visibility patrols and public assistance operations around schools and major thoroughfares as part of preparations for the return of millions of learners on June 8.
“Our primary focus remains the total safety of millions of returning students, which is why the PNP is prioritizing strict traffic management to avoid congestion, intensified street patrols to prevent petty crimes like theft and swindling targeting youth, and the elimination of any localized threat or gang activity near school zones,” Nartatez said in a statement Friday, May 29.
Earlier, the Department of Education (DepEd) ordered the full implementation of Oplan Balik Eskwela, an annual interagency program that seeks to address recurring concerns linked to school opening, including enrollment issues, transport availability, public safety, and classroom readiness.
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Nartatez said police commanders were instructed to coordinate closely with school officials, barangay leaders, and local traffic management offices to maintain order around campuses, since the reopening of classes traditionally draws heavy crowds at public transport terminals and on major roads.
“We will deploy our personnel across all regions to establish a highly visible, reassuring police presence that deters criminals and ensures our schools remain secure, peaceful sanctuaries for learning,” the top cop said.
Police assistance desks will also be activated near schools to respond quickly to emergencies and public concerns.
The PNP said community participation would be critical in preventing crimes during the class opening period, especially in crowded areas where students gather before and after school hours.
“A safe school opening is a shared responsibility, and we highly encourage parents, barangay officials, and local volunteers to actively collaborate with our personnel on the ground through quick reporting of suspicious individuals or activities,” Nartatez said.