Police to go after bullies too when classes open

MANILA, Philippines—Schoolyard bullies, watch out: Picking on wide-eyed freshmen may get you in deep trouble.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday said it would be on the lookout for three types of offenders on the opening of classes next week, in this order: first, drug pushers; second, snatchers, pickpockets and other street criminals; and third, bullies.

In an interview, PNP Director General Nicanor A. Bartolome said the PNP was well prepared for the opening of classes on June 4, particularly in the deployment of personnel on and around school campuses and in other crowded places.

Bartolome said local police units have been alerted to mobilize foot patrol personnel for police visibility operations in school premises to prevent out-of-school youth and street gangsters from bullying students.

He also said the PNP, in coordination with LGUs, will also strictly implement laws and local ordinances that govern the operation of computer gaming shops, recreation centers such as billiard halls and gaming establishments, including establishments that serve alcoholic beverages within the perimeter of school campuses.

He said the police officers to be deployed were under instructions not only to patrol the streets and secure the students but also to help them cross the streets or give directions and “other basic things they can do to help out.”

Bartolome warned criminals that law enforcers would be watching their every move.

He said they would focus first on drug pushers who might try to sell drugs on school campuses or within their vicinity, and second on petty criminals, who might try to snatch purses or bags.

The third type of offender, he said, is the school bully.

“We will be looking out for those who bully new students, especially those who are newly arrived in Manila. We want to protect them as well,” Bartolome said. “That is why our directive is for police units nationwide to coordinate with school authorities.”

Bartolome said he hoped to dialogue with representatives of parents-teachers associations and school administrators to determine other ways the PNP could keep the opening of classes peaceful and orderly.