DILG: Tightened school security measures, upgraded violent intervention strategies eyed after Tacloban, Cavite tragedies
By Chito Chavez
Strategic school safety measures, coupled with early violent intervention plans of action, are the only viable options amid the deeply concerning tragic incidents that rocked the country recently, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) said.
DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic’’ Remulla noted that these strategic maneuvers should come with a reinforced community based violent prevention efforts in the wake of the San Jose National High School shooting incident which occurred a couple of days in the twin school stabbing incidents in Cavite City.
“No learner, teacher, or school personnel should have to fear for their safety inside an institution dedicated to education and personal development. Schools must remain places of learning, opportunity, and hope, not venues of violence,’’ Remulla said.
In condemning the San Jose National High School shooting fracas, Remulla extended his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the swift recovery of those who were injured.
Likewise, Remulla directed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident and to coordinate closely with the Department of Education and local government units in reviewing and strengthening security measures in schools.
“We stand in solidarity with the victims, their families, and the entire school community during this difficult time,’’ he added.
Remulla asserted that “the DILG remains committed to working with all concerned agencies and local governments to help ensure that our schools remain safe, secure, and conducive environments for learning.’’