DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 22 August 2026) – Only 1,295 security personnel are assigned to over 1.1 million enrollees across nearly 2,000 schools in Region 11 under the Department of Education (DepEd), according to DepEd 11 spokesperson Janielito S. Atillo. The data, sourced from the agency’s “School Safety and Security Audit Round 2 Tracker” as of August 10 this year, was shared during a press conference at the Royal Mandaya Hotel in Davao City. This follows a recent school shooting at Ateneo de Zamboanga Junior High School, which resulted in the deaths of two students, including the shooter who took his own life. Atillo clarified that the figure excludes additional security support like police augmentation, noting that while two or three personnel suffice for small schools, larger institutions face significant challenges with only 20-30 personnel. He emphasized strict security protocols, including mandatory inspections for all individuals entering schools, regardless of their role. DepEd has provided 512 hand-held metal detectors for public schools in the region, though inspections remain largely visual. Atillo urged parents to monitor their children, stressing that schools cannot be solely blamed for incidents on campus. He advocated for a collaborative responsibility among households, communities, and schools. Enhanced security measures include inspecting bags and vehicles, with full-bag inspections conducted in the presence of students and parents. Individuals carrying firearms, even with permits, must surrender them temporarily. Major Ma. Teresita Gaspan of the Davao City Police Office called for improved security investments, including metal detectors and regular bag inspections, while urging responsible firearm storage. Authorities are taking all threats seriously, with one arrest made during the Kadayawan Festival over a bomb-related comment on Facebook live. Gaspan described Davao City schools as “generally safe,” though no suspects have been arrested in recent bomb joke incidents targeting schools. (Razl EJ Teman/MindaNews)
