Education Secretary Sonny Angara observed firsthand how a large urban campus can maintain a zero-incident safety record, as he inspected the security protocols and learner protection programs of Lakan Dula High School.
The inspection is part of the Department of Education’s (DepEd) ongoing school audits to enhance safety measures across all schools nationwide. Lakan Dula High School serves as a model school for the implementation of the Guidelines on Ensuring a Safe and Motivating Learning Environment (ESMLE) under DepEd Order No. 006, s. 2026.
Angara emphasized that Lakan Dula High School is a prime example of a model school and successful collaboration, with the local government unit (LGU), Philippine National Police (PNP), alumni association, and parents providing assistance to the school.
“Itong Lakan Dula High School ay isang ehemplo ng modelong school at sa collaboration. Ang LGU may tinulong, ang alumni association may tinulong din pati sa metal detector, ang kapulisan. Kaya nagpapasalamat tayo sa PNP, LGU, alumni association at lahat ng partners kasi napakaraming tumulong dito sa Lakan Dula High School,” Angara said.
Lakan Dula High School’s safety initiatives include regular emergency preparedness drills, joint safety training with local responders, weather advisory systems, structured arrival and dismissal procedures, and close coordination with local law enforcement.
According to Angara, while security hardware such as body scanners, metal detectors, and CCTV cameras are vital, the school’s true safety comes from its people, including observant teachers, active parents, and security guards and watchmen who personally know the learners.
Angara also lauded Lakan Dula High School for creating open communication channels where learners feel safe and empowered to report concerns without fear of retaliation.
During his walkthrough of the campus, one of the oldest public schools in Manila serving 4,750 learners, Secretary Angara reviewed its multi-layered safety measures. He began by signing the school’s Commitment Wall before observing entry-point security procedures and visitor verification protocols.
Angara also evaluated psychosocial support services at the campus Care Center and met learner responders at the Batang Emergency Response Team station.
Angara also lauded Lakan Dula High School for creating open communication channels where learners feel safe and empowered to report concerns without fear of retaliation.
He also reviewed the school’s security monitoring center and joined parents, guardians and barangay partners for a Kaagapay Session focusing on learner discipline, anti-bullying measures, and digital safety.
“We welcome ang tulong ng mga mga magulang. Iyan ang pakay ng Kaagapay Program na gusto nating palakasin sa buong bansa. Ayon din iyan sa panawagan ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos na ang lahat ng sektor maging aktibo sa security ng mga paaralan, sa mental health at sa tamang paggamit ng internet ng mga bata,” Angara said.
DepEd is requesting PHP8.18 billion in additional funds from Congress under its 2027 proposed budget to equip more schools with essential safety features similar to those at Lakan Dula High School, such as security guards, metal detectors, CCTV networks and perimeter fencing.
Lakan Dula High School’s safety initiatives include regular emergency preparedness drills, joint safety training with local responders, weather advisory systems, structured arrival and dismissal procedures, and close coordination with local law enforcement.
