4,000 cops to be deployed in Metro for school opening
By Julie M. Aurelio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 15:49:00 05/27/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) will be deploying 4,000 cops to schools and nearby areas in preparation for the opening of classes.
NCRPO director Geary Barias on Tuesday said the NCRPO’s back to school preparations "will focus on the safety of our students and their security from criminal elements."
He also ordered station commanders to inspect areas for pornographic materials, video karera, and stores selling cigarettes and alcohol to students.
Dubbed "Oplan Balik Eskwela 2008," the security plan also involves the Department of Education and local government units in Metro Manila.
Around 2.1 million students from preschool to high school are expected to go back to school on June 10, said DepEd representative Rizalino Rosales.
"Oplan Balik Eskwela" will run for four weeks, two weeks before the opening of classes and another two weeks into the school year.
Barias has ordered increased police visibility and anti-criminality campaigns in areas near schools, especially against petty criminals preying on students.
Station commanders will meet with homeowners groups, parent-teacher associations, village watchmen, and school security guards to discuss security measures for the opening of classes.
The NCRPO has also directed chiefs of police to clear school surroundings of graffiti, paint pedestrian lanes and guard against hazards such as open manholes and live electrical wires.
In particular, police will watch out for vendors selling pornographic materials near schools and will file appropriate charges against them.
"We are not only securing our students but also trying to provide them an environment free from such distractions," Barias added.
Internet shops around school campuses, meanwhile, will be also inspected for any illegal videogames.
Local traffic enforcers will be tasked to man the expected heavy volume of traffic in roads leading to schools next week, he said.
"Youth and adult volunteers will also be asked to act as 'Bantay Eskwela' to keep an eye on any incidents around the school," the police official explained.
Barias and other NCRPO officials are set to visit school campuses this week to distribute leaflets on safety tips for students.
Barias added the police is also setting up "Oplan Saklolo" to provide transportation and other aid to stranded commuters and students should heavy storms hit the country during the opening of classes.
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