Gov. Sol Aragones Strengthens School Security Across Laguna; Police Presence Expanded in Over 346 Public Schools

Gov. Sol Aragones Strengthens School Security Across Laguna; Police Presence Expanded in Over 346 Public Schools

Governor Sol Aragones on June 29 intensified school security measures across Laguna through a province-wide initiative that deploys police officers in public schools to ensure the safety and protection of students, teachers, and school personnel.

“Ayoko ng ningas-kugon. Dapat tuloy-tuloy ang pagbabantay ng mga pulis sa mga bata. Sa mga guro at estudyante, kapag may nakitang kahina-hinala, magsumbong agad sa pulis,” Governor Aragones emphasized as she directed law enforcement agencies to maintain a sustained police presence in schools throughout the province.

The initiative, implemented in partnership with the Philippine National Police (PNP), school officials, and local government units, aims to establish a safe and orderly learning environment in both public and private educational institutions in Laguna.

Governor Aragones recently visited Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School (PGMNHS), accompanied by members of the PNP, Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Editha Atendido and school officials and teachers. According to the governor, police officers have been assigned to schools from the opening of classes until dismissal to ensure the security of students and school communities.

Currently, more than 346 public schools in Laguna are covered by the security program. As one of the largest schools in the province, Pedro Guevara Memorial National High School has been given increased police visibility and monitoring.

Police officers remain stationed in and around school premises from the arrival of students in the morning until dismissal in the afternoon to maintain peace and order and provide immediate response when necessary.

Governor Aragones also visited Don Manuel Rivera Memorial National High School in Pila, where she met with school officials and local police officers assigned to the campus. The governor emphasized the importance of direct coordination between school administrators and the Philippine National Police to ensure quick response to any emergency or security concern.

The school principal now has direct access to the local chief of police, while assigned officers regularly monitor the campus and surrounding areas to ensure the safety of students and teachers.

The provincial government is also studying the acquisition of metal detectors and other security equipment as part of its long-term school safety program. The proposed initiative may be included in the 2027 provincial budget to benefit more than 300 public schools and approximately 140 private schools across Laguna’s municipalities and cities.

Authorities are likewise monitoring the presence of loiterers outside school premises, which may contribute to disturbances or security concerns. Barangay tanods are expected to work alongside police officers in conducting patrols and maintaining peace and order around schools.

The intensified security program was further strengthened following reports of violent incidents in several schools in other parts of the country.

Governor Aragones also inspected Lalakay Elementary School together with Los Baños Mayor Neil Nocon and Laguna Provincial Director Col. Sandro Tafalla to assess existing security measures and discuss additional safety interventions.

The provincial government, together with the PNP, local government units, school officials, and community stakeholders, continues to strengthen security efforts to ensure that every young Lagunense can study in a safe, peaceful, and conducive learning environment. (PIO-Laguna)