PNP sounds alarm on crimes vs students

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. physically attends the hybrid organizational meeting of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs. Senate PRIB file photo / Voltaire F. Domingo

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) sounded the alarm on crimes against students after it had recorded 149 incidents of such nature from July 1 to August 31, 2022.

In a statement on Friday, PNP said majority of the crimes were rape cases in Metro Manila.

It further detailed that among the other common offenses were acts of lewdness and violations of the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004.

READ: Gender-based violence: A disease more pervasive than COVID 

“Our intention is not to create panic, but we caution the students to always be vigilant around their environment. When their parents tell them not to trust strangers, the children must take this seriously,” PNP chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said.

He then pointed out the “greater challenge” for police forces to safeguard children, especially since in-person classes have resumed nationwide.

With this in mind, Azurin assured the public that there is “strong coordination between the education department and the PNP to work hand-in-hand in ensuring the safety of the children.”

Calls to investigate the recent string of disappearances among women and the youth have been sought by several lawmakers, including Gabriela Rep. Arlene Brosas and Senator Imee Marcos.

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JPV