POLICE inspecting schools in the Caraga region during the opening of classes Monday. (PRO-13 FB)
CAMP COL. RAFAEL C. RODRIGUEZ, Butuan City – The opening of classes Monday in the Caraga region was generally peaceful, police said.
“Thank God that everything is normal and no untoward incident,” said Police Regional Office-13 Public Information Office chief Police Major Jennifer S. Ometer.
However, some schools suspended classes following the magnitude-7.8 earthquake in Southern Mindanao for safety of the students.
Police Regional Office-13 chief Police Brig. Gen. Marcial Magistrado IV visited several schools to directly assess conditions and ensure the safety and security of learners, teachers, and school personnel.
PRO-13 mobilized 1,486 police officers and force multipliers to ensure security during the opening of classes.
PRO-13 established 202 Police Assistance Desks (PADs) to respond to the needs of students, teachers, and parents.
“Since last week, PRO-13 rank-and-file was already on alert to prevent crimes that may be committed by exploiters during the opening of classes,” Magistrado said.
Magistrado encouraged the public to report suspicious activities to the police.
“Your PRO-13 is always ready to respond immediately and ensure the safety of students, teachers, and school personnel,” he said.
PRO-13 will continue intensify police visibility in areas of jurisdictions to prevent crimes, Ometer said. “This is one of the effective ways to safeguard students and teachers from any untoward incidents and crimes.”