PNP orders info campaigns to fight bullying, boost online safety

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered its units to conduct information campaigns to push back against bullying and to bolster online safety in the wake of the fatal Tacloban City school shooting.

In a statement on Monday, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said he directed all of the agency’s women and children protection desks to intensify its campaigns on violence against children in coordination with schools and local stakeholders.

Nartatez added that he ordered the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group to conduct lectures on online safety for students, teachers and school personnel to help them recognize cyber threats.

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READ: DepEd to hire more counselors to stem school violence

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“Law enforcement has an important role in maintaining a safe learning environment, but it is not a role we perform alone. Our focus is on prevention, protection, and partnership with educators, parents, and community leaders,” the top cop added.

The renewed push for campaigns against bullying and online safety came after two suspects, aged 14 and 15, opened fire inside the San Jose National High School in Tacloban City last June 22, killing three students and injuring 20 more.

The PNP previously said both suspects had been bullied and influenced by a supposedly violent game prior to the incident.

Both minors were taken into police custody then turned over to social workers, as the 15-year-old suspect faces murder, frustrated murder and physical injury charges, while the 14-year-old suspect is set to undergo rehabilitation.

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The Department of Education (DepEd) has since proposed increasing the number of guidance counselors in schools and strengthening coordination with law enforcement in response to the shooting.

In the statement, Nartatez said the PNP fully supported the DepEd’s proposal.

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“Guidance counselors play a vital role in early intervention and student welfare while the police can help ensure a safe and secure environment for learning,” the PNP chief said.

“We are committed to working closely with schools, local governments, and communities to protect our students and prevent threats before they escalate,” he added. /mr

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