The Philippine National Police (PNP) will expand its school-based safety and crime prevention campaign nationwide to better protect students from crime, online exploitation, misinformation and radicalization.

PNP Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. He said the initiative builds on awareness programs conducted by the Police Community Affairs and Development Group (PCADG) and local police units to educate students on personal safety and responsible citizenship.

The campaign is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive, through the Department of the Interior and Local Government, to strengthen cooperation among law enforcement agencies, schools and local communities.

"The PNP believes that crime prevention begins with awareness," Nartatez said. "By engaging students at an early age, we equip them with the knowledge to recognize threats, make responsible decisions and become active partners in keeping their schools and communities safe."

The latest campaign was held on 9 July at San Juan City Science High School during Police Community Relations Month. The PCADG, San Juan City Police Station and the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency-NCR conducted discussions on fake news, illegal drugs, anti-terrorism, the Safe Spaces Act, anti-bullying, active shooter survival, crime prevention and government peace and security programs.

Nartatez said police units have been directed to strengthen partnerships with schools and local stakeholders while expanding youth awareness campaigns on cyber safety, anti-bullying, illegal drugs, online scams and responsible social media use.

He said educating students early is one of the government's most effective tools in preventing them from becoming victims of crime or harmful online activities.