The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday directed all police units nationwide to support the Department of Education's (DepEd) strengthened school safety measures following the recent shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban City.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police organization will fully support the nationwide school security initiatives being implemented by Education Secretary Sonny Angara to ensure the safety of learners, teachers, and school personnel.

The directive aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s order, through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to strengthen school security and provide a safe learning environment for students.

"The PNP fully supports the directives of President Marcos Jr. and Secretary Angara to strengthen school safety nationwide. We have directed all police regional and local units to closely coordinate with DepEd officials, conduct security assessments, increase police visibility around schools, and actively participate in intelligence-sharing and threat-monitoring efforts," Nartatez said.

"Our goal is to help create a safe and secure learning environment where students can focus on their education without fear," he added.

DepEd recently launched a nationwide, multi-agency initiative to enhance campus security following the Tacloban City shooting.

The measures include a nationwide school safety audit, increased police visibility around schools, a review of existing school safety policies, and the allocation of funds for security equipment and infrastructure improvements.

In support of these efforts, Nartatez instructed all police regional offices and local units to coordinate closely with DepEd officials in their respective areas and assist in security assessments and preventive measures.

"Our approach is community-oriented and preventive rather than intrusive. Police officers deployed near schools will engage with students, teachers, and parents in a professional and approachable manner, focusing on safety, trust-building, and rapid response to concerns," Nartatez said.

"We want our presence to provide reassurance and confidence, not anxiety, while ensuring that potential threats are deterred before they escalate," he added.