NCRPO backs localized security assessments of Metro Manila schools

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Monday said it fully supports the creation of a Joint School Safety Task Force that will conduct site-specific security audits of public schools nationwide.

NCRPO Officer-in-Charge Police Brigadier General Christopher Abrahano said localized security and threat assessments are important because schools have different environments, vulnerabilities and security concerns.

“We support the conduct of localized and site-specific security assessments of schools in the National Capital Region. Each school has its own circumstances, and our security measures must be responsive to the actual conditions on the ground,” Abrahano said.

Abrahano said he will direct Metro Manila police commanders to coordinate closely with the Department of Education-National Capital Region, school administrators and local government units in assessing school security, identifying vulnerabilities and strengthening preventive measures.

Among the proposed directives are to conduct school-specific threat and security assessments; strengthen police visibility during critical school hours; review emergency and rapid-response arrangements; establish direct communication channels with school officials; enhance threat monitoring and early reporting; and document effective practices for possible adoption across Metro Manila.

“We want every assessment to answer a simple question: What does this particular school need to become safer, and what can the police and our partner agencies do about it?” Abrahano said.

“The safety of our students is a shared responsibility. NCRPO is ready to work with DepEd, local governments, school authorities, parents and our communities to prevent threats before they escalate and to ensure that every learner in Metro Manila can go to school in a safe and secure environment,” the NCRPO chief added.