The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday called on Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to work with local police in identifying early warning signs among young people to help prevent violence in their communities.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said SK officials are well-positioned to identify concerns involving students and other young people because of their close ties with the youth in their barangays.

“Sangguniang Kabataan officials are in the better position to be active partners in monitoring the youth in their barangays. They are closest to the students and can help us identify early warning signs, report concerns, and guide young people toward positive activities,” Nartatez said.

The call came after police intervened in separate cases involving two students whose social media posts were reported by concerned members of their communities.

The PNP said a 13-year-old Grade 8 student and an 18-year-old student separately posted photos of themselves holding a gun. The younger student also posted what police described as a disturbing caption.

Counselors from the PNP Women and Children Protection Desk and the local government met with the 13-year-old and his guardians to discuss the consequences of violent actions.

“These two incidents are proof of the importance of not only cooperation but also the trust and confidence of the people to their police. Our personnel on the ground did not fail the expectation of the people for quick response on matters pertaining to public safety and protection,” Nartatez said.

Nartatez said SK officials could help strengthen early intervention because they regularly interact with young people, including through social media.

Local police units were directed to coordinate with SK councils to identify potential behavioral risks among students and expand community programs focused on sports, leadership and violence prevention.

The PNP said the initiative would complement coordination with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Education, barangay officials and local governments following recent incidents involving minors carrying firearms and other deadly weapons in schools.

“If you notice changes in a young person’s behavior, do not hesitate to reach out to the police or local officials. Early reporting allows us to intervene before problems escalate into violence. Protecting our children is a shared responsibility,” Nartatez said.