Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed local police and cybercrime units Monday to intensify digital safety awareness campaigns across schools, universities, and barangays to combat rising online threats.

The directive aligns with orders from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to strengthen community-based crime prevention and foster collaboration among government agencies and local stakeholders.

“Cyber safety awareness must reach people where they live, study and work,” Nartatez said in a statement. “We need to bring practical guidance closer to our communities because prevention starts with knowledge.”

The announcement follows a nationwide information drive conducted by various police cybercrime units from 11 to 18 September.

The campaign reached students, educators, and local officials in Quezon, Ilocos Norte, Catanduanes, Aklan, the Negros Island Region, Zamboanga City, Sarangani and parts of Northern Mindanao.

During the community seminars, police focused on practical digital risks, including online scams, phishing links, cyberbullying, data privacy breaches, and online radicalization. Participants received guidance on identifying suspicious activities and properly reporting fraudulent schemes.

The PNP cited that as digital platforms become increasingly integral to education and commerce, vulnerable groups — particularly young people — require more structured protection against predatory online behavior.

“People do not have to be technology experts to protect themselves online. Sometimes, it starts with simple things — checking before you click, thinking before you share, and asking for help when something does not feel right,” Nartatez said, adding that the agency wants citizens to be more knowledgeable and cautious in using technology.

The PNP chief stressed that mitigating cyber-related incidents extends beyond law enforcement, requiring active participation from parents, teachers, and barangay officials to help young users develop safer digital habits.