The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) conducted a training program on crisis management and bomb threat response for higher education institutions (HEIs) to improve preparedness and campus safety.

Data from the Philippine National Police and a CHED survey showed that 209 bomb threats were reported in HEIs in 2025, with 128 incidents occurring in October and November. These incidents disrupted academic activities and raised safety concerns among students, faculty, and staff.

The first training session was held from 6 December to 8 December at Mariano Marcos State University in Batac, Ilocos Norte. It involved 48 representatives from 16 state universities and colleges identified as highly vulnerable to such threats.

The three-day program included modules on emergency response, expert-led discussions, and practical simulations facilitated by specialists from the Office of the Civil Defense and the Philippine National Police.

CHED said the training aims to help institutions strengthen prevention, response, and continuity measures to ensure the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and personnel.

Three additional training cohorts are scheduled for January and February 2026, expanding coverage to more higher education institutions.