ILOILO City — Thousands of students across Western Visayas returned to school Monday, June 8, without any major security incident as police intensified campus security operations under Oplan Balik Eskwela, the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) reported.
Police officers were deployed to schools, transportation terminals, pedestrian crossings, major roads, and other convergence areas throughout the region to ensure a safe and orderly opening of classes.
Police Assistance Desks were also established in schools to provide immediate support to students, parents, teachers, and administrators and to facilitate coordination between schools and law enforcement authorities.
The security effort formed part of PRO-6’s wider Balik Eskwela operations aimed at boosting police visibility, preventing crimes, and maintaining peace and order in and around educational institutions.
“The generally peaceful and orderly opening of classes across Western Visayas reflects our strong coordination with school officials, concerned agencies, and force multipliers. Our police personnel will remain visible, approachable, and ready to assist to ensure the safety of our learners, parents, teachers, and school communities,” said Police Brigadier General Randulf Tuaño, regional director of PRO-6.
In a statement, Tuaño said the first day of classes proceeded smoothly throughout the region.
“Overall, the opening of classes throughout Western Visayas was orderly, peaceful, and safe. Through the cooperation of the Department of Education, local government units, other law enforcement agencies, and our communities, the movement of students, teachers, and parents entering schools was properly managed,” he said.
The regional police chief said officers will continue to maintain a strong presence in schools and other key locations throughout the academic year.
“We continue to deploy our police personnel under Oplan Balik Eskwela to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and other stakeholders. We have intensified police visibility, traffic management, and security monitoring around schools, transport terminals, and other crowded places,” Tuaño added.
While no significant security concern was recorded during the opening of classes, he stressed that the regional police force remains vigilant.
“Although we did not record any major security concern that affected the opening of classes, we remain alert and prepared to respond to any situation to ensure a safe and orderly school year for everyone,” he said.
Tuaño also expressed gratitude to the public for supporting the security operations.
“The people can be assured that Police Regional Office 6 will remain committed to delivering fast, honest, and responsive public service,” he said./PN
