Baronda files bill creating permanent security officers in public schools
By Tara Yap
ILOILO City Rep. Baronda with students. (Office of Rep. Baronda)
Rep. Julienne “Jam-Jam” Baronda of Iloilo City has filed a bill mandating permanent security officers in all public schools following the fatal school shooting in Tacloban City.
Baronda proposed in House Bill No. 9930 that the Department of Education (DepEd) create a permanent position for at least one school security officer in all public elementary and high schools.
“A secure school environment enables learners to focus on their studies, teachers to perform their duties effectively, and parents to have confidence that their children are protected while in school,” Baronda said in the explanatory note.
Baronda cited the incidents in Tacloban City on June 22 and General Trias City, Cavite in filing the measure.
She said that many public schools have limited security arrangements such as hiring contractual guards and this is only possible if schools have the budget.
Baronda lamented even schools in rural and underserved areas do not have any security at all.
Her bill wants to address these gaps by institutionalizing a permanent school security framework under DepEd. “These school security officers shall be career government employees who are properly trained, adequately compensated, and fully integrated into the school system,” added Baronda.