BACOLOD City — Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) have called for heightened vigilance and stronger collaboration among schools, parents, local government units, and law enforcement agencies following a recent stabbing incident involving minors in San Carlos City.
In a statement issued Tuesday, June 23, Lacson described the incident and other acts of violence involving young people as deeply disturbing, stressing that schools must remain safe spaces where students can learn, grow, and pursue their education without fear.
The governor urged administrators of both public and private schools to strengthen campus safety measures and work closely with parents, communities, and government agencies to promote discipline, respect, responsibility, and nonviolence among learners.
“Schools should continue to be environments where our youth feel secure and supported,” Lacson said, emphasizing the importance of proactive efforts to prevent violence and ensure student welfare.
Meanwhile, PRO-NIR said that although the stabbing incident in San Carlos City occurred outside school premises, the case highlights the need for early intervention, strong parental guidance, and sustained community involvement in preventing youth violence.
The regional police office noted that the case is currently being handled by the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) of the San Carlos City Police Station in accordance with child protection laws and established protocols, as both the victim and the suspect are minors.
Police officials encouraged parents, teachers, school administrators, and community leaders to promptly report signs of bullying, threats, gang-related activities, and other behaviors that may place students at risk.
According to PRO-NIR, early reporting and timely intervention are essential in preventing conflicts from escalating into more serious incidents.
The regional police office also addressed concerns that increased police engagement in schools could be perceived as the militarization of educational institutions.
PRO-NIR clarified that the Philippine National Police fully respects the authority of schools in maintaining discipline and safeguarding student welfare. It emphasized that police participation is intended only to support existing school safety programs and will be undertaken in coordination with school officials and in compliance with child protection policies.
Under its SAFE NIR initiative, PRO-NIR said it continues to expand preventive programs in communities aimed at addressing the root causes of violence, promoting positive youth development, and strengthening partnerships among stakeholders.
Both Lacson and police officials underscored that ensuring the safety and well-being of students is a shared responsibility that requires the collective efforts of families, schools, communities, and government institutions.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to working together to create safer learning environments and to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.(WDJ)/PN
