The recent shooting incident at Santa Rosa Integrated School in Nueva Ecija reminds us of the urgent need to prioritize safety measures in our educational institutions.

The tragic incident that left two students, a Grade 10 girl and her ex-boyfriend, critically injured highlights a growing epidemic of violence. The boy, all of 18, died a few hours later, while the girl, 15, clings to life in a hospital. If this trend continues unchecked, it could threaten the schools as safe havens for learning and personal development.

First things first. The two students initially got injured due to inadequate bag checks. Was the bag of the firearm carrier checked at all? Where did the gun come from?

Jealousy may have contributed to the tragic incident, highlighting a concerning trend. Children are increasingly exposed to violence, sometimes instigated by social media, and this can result in long-lasting trauma and a skewed perception of conflict resolution.

The Department of Education (DepEd) has taken significant steps by issuing directives to all schools nationwide to enhance their safety protocols.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara rightly emphasized the significance of the DepEd’s Child Protection Policy, which prohibits acts of violence and outlines the responsibilities of school communities in maintaining a safe learning environment.

Safeguards must include the implementation of stricter security measures, increasing the visibility of security personnel, and the prohibition of firearms and other prohibited items on school grounds. These actions are crucial for protecting our children and ensuring that the school environment remains conducive to their growth.

Schools are not only places for academic learning — they also serve as environments where young minds can develop values such as empathy, respect, and peaceful conflict resolution.

While educators and school officials play a crucial role in safeguarding the students, the responsibility of ensuring a safe and supportive environment should not fall solely on their shoulders. Parents, local government units, and community members must actively engage in prioritizing the creation and maintenance of secure spaces for youth.

Open lines of communication between schools and families can lead to better support systems for students, fostering an atmosphere where they will feel safe to report issues such as bullying or threats of violence.

Community engagement is also crucial. Close collaboration with local government and law enforcement will help to address external threats and bolster the safety measures put in place.

Schools should develop localized safety plans based on the needs of their communities. Such grassroots involvement can be integral in preventing violence and protecting our students.

Mental health services should be part of a comprehensive safety strategy. By providing support for mental health, youth development, and psychosocial well-being, we can help students build resilience and cope with the pressures that could lead to violent behavior.

The incident in Nueva Ecija is a wake-up call for all of us. Life is too precious for these young people, and we must not allow them to waste it. While we can find some solace in the quick response from the Department of Education, it is clear that more action is needed.

We all play a role in shaping our children’s behavior. The results we see are a reflection of what we put in.