The Mandaue City Government will distribute security equipment to public schools and expand police visibility in and around campuses as part of efforts to strengthen protection against school violence.
According to the Mandaue City Public Affairs Office, the city will provide seven walk-through metal detectors, 50 handheld metal detectors and mobile phones that can be used for Zoom live streaming in public schools, Mayor Thadeo ‘Jonkie’ Ouano said following a multi-agency meeting on school safety on Wednesday, Aug. 19.
The meeting brought together the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO), Department of Education-Mandaue City (DepEd-Mandaue), and various city government offices to discuss measures aimed at keeping students and school personnel safe.
Ouano directed the police to increase their presence in schools, particularly during periods when students are most vulnerable, including mornings, lunch breaks, afternoons, and night classes.
The mayor said stronger police visibility is necessary to deter incidents of violence and help ensure that students can exercise their right to learn in a safe environment.
The city also emphasized the need to remain prepared for violent incidents and other emergencies that could threaten students, teachers and other school personnel.
DepEd Mandaue said it continues to conduct information drives in schools on precautionary measures, including what students and school personnel should do in case of an active school shooting.
The department also noted that, following a June 24 meeting, Barangay Peacekeeping and Security Officers (BPSOs) have become more visible in schools within their respective barangays. Their presence is intended to help prevent unauthorized individuals from entering school premises.
Meanwhile, the Mandaue City Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Office (SAMHSO) and the City Social Welfare Services Office (CSWSO) reported that they are strengthening programs and services for schools, particularly psychological interventions and other mental health support for students.
SAMHSO also plans to expand seminars for parents, with emphasis on effective communication with children and the use of positive parenting approaches.
The city government and concerned agencies also discussed the development of policies and procedures to further safeguard students and teachers while maintaining a peaceful, secure, and conducive learning environment.