Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso announced the completion of a proposed city ordinance aimed at creating safer schools and communities following consultations with school officials and community leaders through a dedicated safety task force.

During its second consultative meeting, key city and law enforcement officials agreed to iron out the final details of the measure.

Meeting participants included City Administrator Wardee Quintos, City Legal Officer Luch Gempis, Manila School Division Superintendent Sheryll Gayola, Manila Police District director Brig. Gen. Arnold Santiago, Manila Chief of Staff Cesar Chavez, and Manila Department of Social Welfare director Jay de la Fuente.

With comments and recommendations already submitted by the police, school division, and legal offices, officials said only one step remains before the proposal becomes a binding city ordinance to strengthen school and neighborhood security.

The security push comes in the wake of a mass shooting at San Jose National High School in Tacloban on 22 June.

The tragedy left three students dead and 20 others wounded. Two male students from the school, ages 14 and 15, were identified as suspects using a 9mm pistol and a .38-caliber revolver.