ANTIQUE — The Antique Provincial Police Office (APPO) has intensified security measures in schools across the province and called on parents to play a more active role in instilling discipline and values among their children.
During a press conference, Antique Provincial Police Director Police Colonel Ryan Devaras assured parents, teachers, and other stakeholders that the Philippine National Police (PNP) remains committed to ensuring the safety of learners and school personnel through heightened police visibility and security operations.
Devaras said police personnel have been deployed to schools to assist in maintaining peace and order, particularly during class opening and dismissal hours.
Aside from managing traffic around school premises, police officers are also coordinating with school security personnel and helping monitor students to prevent potential security concerns.
“We want to assure parents and teachers that the police are present to help secure our schools and maintain a safe environment for learners,” Devaras said.
For schools located in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, commonly referred to as last-mile schools, Devaras directed municipal police stations to regularly visit the communities and coordinate with local police multipliers, including barangay tanods, to support school personnel in maintaining peace and order.
The police official also emphasized the important role of parents in shaping the behavior of their children.
He urged parents to nurture their children with discipline, respect, and concern for others, stressing that values formation should begin at home.
Devaras likewise called on teachers and school personnel to closely guide learners, particularly in navigating information available on the internet.
He noted that while online platforms provide easy access to information, adults must ensure that the content children consume is appropriate for their age and development.
The APPO chief underscored the importance of cooperation among parents, educators, communities, and law enforcement authorities in creating a safe and conducive learning environment for students.
He added that the continued presence of police personnel in schools aims not only to enhance security but also to strengthen public confidence and ensure the welfare of learners throughout the school year./PN
