In light of the recent shooting in a Tacloban school that left three students dead and many others injured, Abra lone district Rep. JB Bernos has called for greater police visibility and stronger security measures in schools in his province.
In a letter to Abra PNP Provincial Director PCOL Charles L. Domallig, Bernos requested for the “immediate strengthening of police visibility and security measures in educational institutions throughout the Province of Abra, particularly in high schools, colleges, and universities.”
He urged police to conduct intensified patrols, increase law enforcement presence in and around school premises, and coordinate closely with school administrators and local authorities to ensure safety and security.
Bernos requested for the “immediate strengthening of police visibility and security measures in educational institutions throughout the Province of Abra.”
On June 22, two Grade 9 students opened fire on other students in San Jose National High School in Tacloban City, killing three students and injuring another 20.
The two suspects are now under custody, with the older already charged with a criminal complaint by the PNP Police Regional Office 8.
The lawmaker said that while no similar incident has yet been reported in the province, preventive action is necessary and the safety of students, teachers, and school personnel must be accorded the highest priority.
Bernos, a vice chair of the House committee on public order and safety, also expressed his support for a congressional probe into the shooting.
“Amid calls to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility, issues of loose firearms and the state of security in our schools, I believe an inquiry is needed so we can get a fuller picture of the situation and be armed with more information to guide legislative action.”
